But if the entire state counted ballots by hand, his victory might seem more legitimate. The Bush campaign refused to bite. The Gore campaign quickly rejected the Baker offer, thus ensuring that the political and legal battle for the White House would continue. And it may spread to other states. One also might come in New Mexico, where the lead has gone back and forth.
Many scenarios are possible.
For one, the outcome in Florida could remain in doubt long enough to prevent the state from casting its 25 electoral votes. Some constitutional lawyers, however, say that 270 votes, a majority of those supposed to be cast, would still be necessary. On this question as well as others, the U.S. Supreme Court could become involved. In that case, the newly elected House of Representatives would decide, with each state, no matter its size, getting one vote. Speaking of Congress, it could play a far more active role than it usually has, for it possesses the authority to accept or reject some or all of the electoral votes from any disputed states.