The timber industry and its allies assert that the rule needs more balance, but this rule is already balanced.

Once those Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents become focused on the contest, they will quickly unite behind the vice president, Mr. Gore's allies assert.

In the space of two weeks, the Moroccans and their tribal allies had asserted control over most of Ifni, isolating inland Spanish units from the capital.

The war on terrorism has only underscored the Pentagon's need for more of those systems, Boeing and its allies assert.

While some Conservative backbenchers are talking about a rebellion, Mr. Major's allies assert that there is no immediate threat to him or his Government.

Consumer advocates and their political allies assert that insurers have raised rates because they can, arguing that insurers' claims have slowed significantly while premiums have shot up.

Many Republicans and their allies in industry assert that the Democrats want a campaign issue, not a responsible law.

Mr. Bush's allies assert that the political hurdles can be overcome with the right leadership in the White House.

Mr. Gore and his allies asserted that the democracy was being honored and served by an effort to make sure that as many voters' voices as possible were heard.

This time, the Western allies assert, they mean business.