Democrats Worry About Ralph Nader's Impact on Election

As the presidential election approaches, Democratic Party members are voicing concerns about Ralph Nader's Green Party bid potentially disrupting the outcome. Senator Harry Reid, a Nevada Democrat, has called Nader's campaign an "ego trip" devoid of respect for the electoral process. Nader's involvement could prove significant if the election remains close, with some polls indicating that his candidacy is gaining traction in certain states. The Bush campaign has privately expressed enthusiasm about Nader's candidacy, according to sources close to the Gore campaign.

Key Takeaways:

• Ralph Nader's Green Party bid has sparked concerns among Democrats, with Senator Harry Reid labeling it an "ego trip" devoid of respect for the electoral process.
• Nader's candidacy could impact the election outcome, particularly if the vote remains close, with some polls indicating he is gaining support in certain states.
• The Bush campaign has expressed private enthusiasm about Nader's candidacy, according to Gore campaign sources.
• A Justice Department investigation into Al Gore's 1996 fund-raising activities has added potential obstacles to his campaign.
• The governor's supporters predict negligible political fallout from Mr. Bush's decision to let Gary Graham's execution proceed, despite emotional protests.

Statistics:

• As of the given time, Al Gore's campaign had faced an estimated $65,000 in donations deemed illegal from a 1996 Buddhist Temple event.
• Mr. Bush has overseen 135 executions during his term in office.
• The majority of Americans support capital punishment, with a predicted negligible impact on Mr. Bush's political standing after his decision to let Gary Graham's execution proceed.

Sources:

• Peter Marks, "Democrats Worry About Ralph Nader's Impact on Election", The New York Times, no date provided
• James P. Hoffa, Teamsters president, speaking at a Washington appearance with Ralph Nader on Teamsters trade issues.