On the strength of heavy union turnout and intense grassroots support from liberal groups and minorities, he won many of the heartland's big industrial states. In the battle for Congress, the currents ran in the other direction, and Republicans lost ground. Many House Republicans stole their opponents' scripts and waged campaigns that promised to improve education and health care. As a result, Democrats made little headway in picking up the six seats they needed to regain control of the House. As of Nov. 8, the net gain was two, with two slots undecided.
All roads lead to the center.
Given the split verdicts, neither party can claim a sweeping mandate. Although either a victorious Bush or Gore would put up a brave show, insisting that a win is a win, reality is far different. Prudential Securities Inc. Although caution and gridlock are dirty words in some quarters, that's not necessarily the case on Wall Street. Job One for the new President-elect is reaching out to opponents and pledging a mild form of coalition government. Either Bush or Gore might be tempted to sooth partisan passions by putting a few opposition members in the Cabinet.