First published 2001
The 2000 presidential election creates an unprecedented crisis in American democracy. Election night produces no clear winner between George W. Bush and Al Gore. Florida becomes the battleground that will determine the presidency. Vote counts shift daily while lawyers file competing lawsuits. The nation watches as election officials debate hanging chads and ballot designs. Political operatives from both parties descend on Florida to influence the recount process. The Supreme Court ultimately intervenes to resolve the deadlock. The New York Times political reporters documented each day of this historic standoff. Their coverage includes breaking news stories, legal analysis, and profiles of key players. The book presents these reports alongside court documents and statistical data. Presidential historian Brinkley provides context for understanding this electoral crisis. This chronicle captures how American democracy faced its greatest test in modern times.
Genres: history, political-science, non-fiction, 21st-century, current-affairs, american-history
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: crisis, deadlock
Setting: America, Florida
Period: 2000
400 pages · Paperback · Times Books