Two national surveys put Vice President Al Gore in a virtual tie with Texas Governor George W. Bush in the presidential campaign. A CNN/Time survey of 1,559 registered voters conducted March 8-9 reveals that 48 percent support Gore, while 46 percent prefer Bush. A Washington Post/ABC News survey of 999 registered voters undertaken March 9-11 found Gore at 48 percent and Bush at 45 percent.

The CNN/Time poll reveals interesting contrasts in how voters view the two candidates. As shown below, both are viewed favorably by voters, 55 percent for Gore and 54 percent for Bush. Gore is seen as more knowledgeable and caring, but the two are tied on the crucial dimension of honesty and trustworthiness. On the major issues, Bush is seen as more adept at handling crime, while Gore has the edge on education, health care, Social Security, and world affairs. No question was asked about who would better handle taxes, but that is an issue that traditionally has advantaged GOP presidential candidates.