BY TERENCE HUNT
The Associated Press
SAN ANTONIO -- President Clinton said he has paid a big price for his affair with Monica Lewinsky but that "wallowing in regret is a cop-out." He also said his wife is "a remarkable woman" and an inspiration in his moment of crisis.
"You don't have to worry about me giving up," the president assured cheering supporters Sunday at a sweltering, outdoor fund-raiser for Garry Mauro, the Democratic nominee for governor of Texas. Ann Richards, the state's plainspoken former governor, gave the beleaguered president a sympathetic introduction.
"Bill Clinton isn't the first man I've had to forgive, and he probably won't be the last," she declared, triggering a burst of applause. Mr. Clinton's face reddened, he shook his head and put his face in his hands.
Mr. Mauro also referred to the president's troubles, recalling that he was introduced to Mr. Clinton by his wife, Hillary, in 1972. "I have to admit, for a few weeks last month, I was cursing her a little bit for that," Mr. Mauro said.
"But you know, I'm really proud to be his friend. And I'm even more proud of what he's done for America," said Mr. Mauro. "I believe he's the greatest president in my lifetime."
The president thanked Mr. Mauro and others for their support. Mr. Clinton, in his first interview since acknowledging he misled the nation about his relationship with Ms. Lewinsky, said he has emerged stronger from the ordeal and that it "gives me a chance to make my marriage whole."
The president's remarks were published in Sunday's Washington Post.
