The Nation - News from Oct. 19, 1986

Sen. Gary Hart of Colorado continues to be the leading contender for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination, with no strong challengers apparent at this early stage in the selection process, according to the latest Gallup poll. In simulated head-to-head contests for the nomination, Democrats and Democratic-leaning Independents choose Hart over his nearest rivals by wide margins. Hart currently leads Chrysler Corp. Chairman Lee A. Iacocca by a 2-to-1 ratio, 58% to 29%, with 13% undecided. He beats New York Gov. Mario M. Cuomo by a 54%-29% margin, with 7% undecided. And Hart defeats Jesse Jackson, 74% to 15%, with 11% undecided.