Why was 2000 so close?

[dudeabides]

2000 shows the divide in American politics to an extent. Bill Clinton was popular, but republicans were going to be voting republican in 2000 and the same with democrats. Republicans probably credited the success of the economy to Newt Gingrich and the GOP, democrats to Bill Clinton and the democrats. So, Bush excited his base; a washington outsider with a record of leadership. Al Gore excited his base; an experienced candidate who would continue the Clinton policies, but move forward on what democrats wanted. Independents seemed divided as well because, both Bush and Gore were strong candidates.