The presidential election of 2000 is an example of how a candidate can receive the greatest share of the popular vote, but lose the election to an opponent. Use the above map to explain why George W. Bush (shown in yellow) won this election, instead of Al Gore (shown in blue).

Answer:

The 2000 presidential election was decided by an extremely close margin in the state of Florida. A presidential candidate needs to secure 270 electoral votes to win a clear majority and the presidency, and Florida’s electoral votes made the difference for George W. Bush. The map and charts indicate that candidate Al Gore received over 500,000 more votes than Bush, and in the process he won 20 states (and the District of Columbia). Though George Bush received less votes overall, he won 30 states and a higher number of electoral votes. Because the Electoral College does not determine a winner based on popular vote, Bush won this election.