Democratic candidate. Age: 52 Born: March 31, 1948 in Washington, DC. Son of the late U.S. Senator Albert Gore Sr. (D-TN).
George
W. Bush,
Republican candidate. Age: 54 Born: July 6, 1946 in New Haven, Connecticut.
Grandson of the late U.S. Senator Prescott Bush (R-CT). Son of former President
George Bush (R-TX). Brother of Governor Jeb Bush (R-FL).
Vice President of the United States, 1993 - present (Elected 1992; re-elected 1996); U.S. Senator, 1985-93; U.S. Congressman, 1977-85; Unsuccessful candidate for the Democratic nomination for President, 1988
Governor of Texas, 1995-present; Senior Advisor, George Bush for President Campaign, 1988; Unsuccessful GOP nominee for Congress, 1978.
Proposes to devote $115 billion of the budget surplus to create an Education Reform Trust Fund to pay for universal preschool programs; reforming the high schools; creating smaller schools and smaller classes, and fixing failing schools. He is proposing National Teacher Corps, which would help people become teachers in high-need schools through scholarships and other incentives.
Gore supports federally mandated trigger locks and promises tougher penalties for
individuals who "commit any violent crime in front of a child." He also favors tougher penalties for selling drugs near schools, selling drugs to children, and using children to sell drugs.
Wants
to reform the nation’s public schools. Will close the achievement
gap, set high standards, promote character education, and ensure school
safety. States will be offered freedom from federal regulation, but will
be held accountable for results. Performance will be measured annually,
and parents will be given more information and choices.
Supports voluntary efforts to equip handguns with childproof trigger locks,
as well as increasing the minimum handgun possession age from 18 to 21.
As Texas governor, he successfully sought mandatory jail time for juveniles
illegally carrying guns and supported trying many teenagers who commit
violent crimes as adults. He also supports increased "character"
education in schools.
Stand on Abortion and Reproductive Issues
Believes in a woman’s right to choose whether or not she will have an abortion. Wants to increase access to reproductive services, wants all women to have access to family planning services.
Against abortion except in case of rape, incest, or when the life of the mother is in danger. Wants to ban use of taxpayer funds for abortion.
Promises to reduce environmental litigation and provide environmental incentives for the private sector. He supports the use of ethanol as an alternative fuel, fully funding the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and providing "just compensation" for private landowners who refrain from utilizing land due to government requirements.
