Diogenes, Here He Is!

Wyoming's conservative Democratic Governor Jack Robert Gage, 63, is a gnarled, homespun sort who has prospered by doing what most politicians don't. In 1959, as secretary of state, he asked the Wyoming legislature to cut his department's budget; it did, but even so, Gage did not spend all the money. Succeeding to the governorship last year to fill out an unexpired term, Gage confounded Wyoming boosters who were fond of claiming dramatic population growth for the state. Said he: "This is just not true, since among the continental states we happen to rank next to the bottom. In my thoughts alone, this is somewhat of a blessing."

Last week, in the published announcement that he would run this year to retain his office. Gage made no claim that he was bowing to popular demand. Said he of the practice so often used by other politicians: "One way or another they say in substance, I really do not want to do it, but so many of my host of friends have begged and pleaded that I have finally given way to their pressure.' "Concluded Gage: "I do not feel that I am anyone's glowing gift to Wyoming--in fact, Wyoming has done much more for me than I can hope to do in return. I do not think I have all the answers; nor have I heard all the questions. At the same time, I know that I have my teeth into this job. I know what it takes. I like it, and announce the fact that I will run because I want to very much."

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