POITICAL BRIEFING

VEEP STAKES: Officially, Democrat Bill Clinton’s presidential campaign says it has not begun to compile a list of potential running mates. But among many advisers to the Arkansas governor, there is no question about whose name tops the wish list: Gen. Colin L. Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. . . . Powell has kept his political leanings a mystery, and no one is overly optimistic that he would agree to challenge his boss, President Bush. But some key Clinton aides clearly are fascinated by the prospect of a running mate with military experience who also could energize black voters. . . . “I’ve been pushing it since last November,” said one adviser. “It’s just chatter--but it’s interesting chatter,” said another.