Dissension Disrupts Reform Party Caucus

A Nashville organizational meeting for the Reform Party erupted in dissension amid disputes between backers of Ross Perot and others who say he should relinquish his grip on the party. The meeting ended on a contentious note, with the breakaway faction saying it would go its separate way. One faction of about 40 people stormed from the meeting after former Perot campaign coordinator Russ Verney was elected chairman. The breakaway faction claimed Verney and other Perot designates would be serving to benefit the Texas billionaire. Representatives of 42 states and the District of Columbia had met to reinforce efforts to create a viable third party.