THE POLLUTION ALL-STARS

Which might suggest that while he's talking a tough game, Symington knows that the data don't support many of the claims the Pollution All-Stars are making. That makes him an All-Star wanna-be.

The question "Where's Fife on the environmental legislation?" produces myriad responses:

ù From DEQ's Ed Fox: "With me. His statement to me, which I have conveyed to the business community and others, is that, 'I support my director.'" Judging by the treatment Fox is getting from the legislature, Symington is not making the statement very loudly. ù House Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee chair Becky Jordan: "Leading the parade is where, I'd guess, or at least setting the tone."

ù Representative Susan Gerard, a Phoenix Republican: "He waits to see what will pass and then he takes credit for it."

ù Senator Chris Cummiskey: "In terms of the environmental stuff, he's been out to lunch for the vast majority of the four and a half years.