When the elections began, the Republicans and Democrats chose their candidates. Caucuses were held in each state to choose delegates. It had begun like any other election, and there was a lot of competition in the primaries. There were six Republicans running for party nominations. As the son of former president George Bush, George Bush Jr. had more money than any other candidate for campaigning. On the other hand, Al Gore had a good reputation, serving two terms as vice president under the Clinton administration.
From July 31st to August 3rd, the Republican National Convention was held in Philadelphia. The Republican Party nominated Bush, he chose Dick Cheney for vice president. Under Bush 's father 's administration, Cheney had been secretary of defense. The Republican 's platform had been made to appeal to conservatives, with set positions on taxes, defense, education, and health care.
From August 14th through 17th, the Democratic National Convention was held in Los Angeles, California. Al Gore was nominated the Democratic candidate for president, with his choice of Joseph Lieberman as vice president. Lieberman was the first Jewish vice presidential candidate of a major party. The Democratic platform outlined the achievements of the Clinton administration.
There had been big differences between Gore and Bush on key issues. For example, Gore proposed a $500 billion tax cut, while Bush proposed $1.3 trillion. Bush was leaning for more defenses, and Gore was going for education. On the other hand, the two candidates had common opinions on issues. Both had supported stronger enforcement on the current gun
Bibliography: 1. The New Book of Knowledge; Annual 2001 a. Grolier Inc., Danbury, Connecticut i. The Battle for the White House, p. 42-47