[gramho12]

I loved the "look", and then he gave him a dismissing but gentlemanly nod, then proceeded to ignore him and answer the questions.

I think that did it for Gore, and if it wasn't for the DUI thing at the last minute, the election would not have been close.

[Carolinamom]

Agreed! The nod was one of dismissal.........for good! That Gore rude power ploy did it for him IMO.

[cajungirl]

The "look" Bush gave gore was priceless and hard to describe. It had a little hint of a smile, an amused smile, that seemed as if Bush wanted to guffaw but didn't. That little smile and nod won the election for Bush.

[Socratic]

"...and if it wasn't for the DUI thing at the last minute, the election would not have been close."

And let's not forget to thank CBS/Rather this year. If any last second surprise "revelations" concerning Mr. Bush come out, there will be such a simultaneous outrage from some and utter disbelief by others, that the election will be a landslide. (Thanks Danny Boy and Momma Mapes).

[GretchenM]

I read a debate critique recently naming critical moments, turning points, in national political perceptions (can't recall who wrote it, as usual). The author described the Gore attempt at intimidation and W's response as THE defining moment in the campaign, the time and place where both men showed their true stuff; score: W 1, Gore, Lost.