Even as they begin to reckon the cost. The George W. Bush juggernaut has left much wreckage in its wake. No president has ever been chosen in such chaotic fashion. Bush lacks legitimacy and authority in the eyes of many. Public confidence in the electoral process has been shaken.
Millions feel cheated, embittered.
Cherished institutions have been tainted. The presidency damaged. Given the split vote, and acrimony, that won't be easy. Moreover neither Bush nor Gore command much confidence. Bush came across as a gaffe-prone lightweight who can't name world leaders, Gore a dreary policy wonk.