The Presidential Election 2000

In one of the closest and most controversial US elections in history, Democrat Al Gore was in the running against Republican George W. Bush. Despite eight years experience as vice president, Gore was often overshadowed by the scandal of Clinton’s second term. Bush, meanwhile, divided opinion with his speaking style and the press were quick to criticize him. Conversely, Bush may have benefitted from this, often surprising both the media and the viewers by doing better than expected in the debates. However, the revelation of Bush’s old drink-driving offense days before the election served to help Gore garner some last-minute popularity. The results were neck-and-neck, with the vote in Florida being the deciding factor. After the networks miscalled the result twice, it was declared ‘too close to call’. Five weeks of disputes, investigation, questioning of validity of votes and recounts followed. Finally the US Supreme Court overruled the decision to hold a statewide recount. Bush became president with a marginal majority.