Al Gore's proposal to abide by a recount of either the three counties or the
entire state of Florida is bound to appear fair and equitable to most
Americans. Further, his suggestion to meet with W. in order to tone down the
rhetoric and to unite behind the winner whoever it seems wise and prudent.
His proposal's give a clear alternative to the court battles that are sure to
decide the election otherwise.
I have little doubt that the hand count will continue and that it will be
certified. The Republican position is (legally) tenuous at best. I believe
they have lost every court ruling so far, and I don't see them winning any
time soon. Everyone seems to think that this thing will be decided in the
Florida Supreme Court.
One comment I'd like to add. Whoever wins the presidency is bound to be the
weakest chief executive in many generations. Start with the fact that at
least a third of the electorate will probably consider the president
illegitimate and will resent his ascension to power. The President will
either fell obligated to reach out to those who consider his position
undeserved or he will have to withstand their wrath. Add to this the near
even division of both houses of congress and you have a situation in which
only a strong, willful leader could assert his legitimacy and advance his
goals. I see this type of leadership in neither of the candidates.
I almost hope that Gore looses.
(but not quite)
Doug
