But some legislative aides questioned how politically realistic some of the Mr. Rinfret's proposals were.

Mayoral aides questioned why Mr. Stein himself had never investigated the allegations.

But Democratic aides questioned whether such lobbying carried more weight than the bill's merits.

But some Congressional aides question whether the Medicare bill will receive Congress's full attention until the trade conference ends.

Mayor Giuliani and his aides have questioned the need for a filtration plant for the reservoirs.

Republican Congressional aides questioned whether the Administration made its estimate earlier this year in the hope of producing a lower number that would constrain budget negotiators.

In Washington, some Congressional aides questioned the mayor's motivations in rescinding the invitation.

But aides to Mr. Marino questioned whether a vote would be taken on a potentially emotional issue in an election year like this.

Political aides to the President, as opposed to foreign-policy advisers, also question whether Mr. Clinton has entirely settled the matter.

NOT even his aides question that ultimately Mr. Bush is most concerned about protecting himself.