And Dukakis said prospective candidates shouldn't be concerned about media scrutiny unless they are aiming for the highest levels.

"Don't worry about intrusiveness in the public life," he said. "If you're not President, it won't be a problem."

When the floor was opened to questions, Dukakis responded to a query about the impact of recent events on the Clintons' political career.

"He was the ablest person I've ever worked with in politics," Dukakis said of the President. "But he has a problem."

Dukakis also tackled questions on campaign finance and his own run for the White House. He said he ran on the national level the same using the same techniques he did locally, by reaching out to individuals.

"I had a chance to connect in backyards, in living rooms," he said, recalling fundraisers at "barbecues and bean suppers."

"Once these folks had contributed and were committed, they'd kill for you," he said of his supporters.

"Raise your money the right way and benefit from that," he said.