Levin assumes large role in Senate debate

WASHINGTON - In a chamber filled with 100 different opinions, 100 competing egos and 100 voices waiting to be heard, it could be hard to distinguish one from the others during the trial of the century.

But Michigan's senior senator, Democrat Carl Levin, has risen to a leadership position among Democrats in the U.S. Senate as President Clinton faces removal from office for perjury and obstruction of justice.

Levin said in an interview Friday that he continues to support acquittal of the articles and a censure resolution after the trial is completed.

"This has been a very important week because of the impact on the floor of the White House case," Levin said. "They did severe damage to the case of the House managers."

Levin, who has had daily conversations with members of both parties, said he has the feeling that the momentum is pushing toward an expedited finish. In his discussion,

FILE PHOTO Top: Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-Conn.) speaks to reporters outside the Senate chamber on Thursday.

Above: Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.)

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