Anheuser-Busch Selected as National Sponsor for Presidential Debates.

Political-Legislative Editors/Assignment-News Directors

ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 6, 2000

Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. today announced it has been selected by the Commission on Presidential Debates as a national sponsor of the four presidential debates for the 2000 election, as well as the sole sponsor of the debate scheduled for October 17 at Washington University in St. Louis.

This marks the first time the brewing giant has been chosen to be a national sponsor. Previously, Anheuser-Busch sponsored the 1992 presidential debate in St. Louis, and committed to sponsoring the St. Louis presidential debate in 1996 that eventually was cancelled.

"We are delighted to be selected as a national sponsor of the presidential debates," said Stephen K. Lambright, group vice president and general counsel, Anheuser-Busch. "The presidential debates are among the most important opportunities for voters to learn about the views and philosophies of presidential candidates in a non-partisan way. It's an honor for us to be part of these important events."

In addition to being a national sponsor, Anheuser-Busch is the sole sponsor of the 2000 presidential debate at Washington University. The company announced last October that it would provide $550,000 to pay for expenses for the debate at Washington University.

Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. is a diversified corporation with interests in brewing, packaging and family entertainment. Its Anheuser-Busch, Inc. subsidiary is America's largest brewing organization, leading the U.S. beer industry for more than 40 years. Anheuser-Busch International, Inc., another subsidiary, is responsible for the sale of Anheuser-Busch beers in more than 80 countries around the world.

SOURCE: Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc.