A similar thread was posted in this forum a few years ago and prompted some interesting discussion: https://www.alternatehistory.com/forum/threads/wi-mccain-sits-out-2000.297524/. I'd like to revive this WI, focusing in particular on how McCain's absence would affect Bill Bradley's performance.
Although I can't find any hard numbers, I'm of the understanding that there was significant crossover between McCain and Bradley's support base due to their anti-establishment campaign themes. If McCain were for some reason to sit 2000 out, how would things change? I imagine Bush would probably still dominate his primary, and I'm sure Gore would still win his, but by a slightly smaller margin.
If Bradley received more positive media coverage, would he be able to mount a heftier challenge to Gore beyond just winning New Hampshire? Would this have any effect on how Gore campaigns? Would he still choose Joe Lieberman as his running mate? Would Bush win by a bigger margin in the fall?
Although I can't find any hard numbers, I'm of the understanding that there was significant crossover between McCain and Bradley's support base due to their anti-establishment campaign themes. If McCain were for some reason to sit 2000 out, how would things change? I imagine Bush would probably still dominate his primary, and I'm sure Gore would still win his, but by a slightly smaller margin.
If Bradley received more positive media coverage, would he be able to mount a heftier challenge to Gore beyond just winning New Hampshire? Would this have any effect on how Gore campaigns? Would he still choose Joe Lieberman as his running mate? Would Bush win by a bigger margin in the fall?