How do we counter the energized conservative base?

[leyton]

I heard on the radio once that in 2000, Bush expected several million religious conservatives to show up for him in the polls, and they simply didn't turn out for him. What this means is that had the religious right turned out, Bush would have won the election handily, with no need for lawsuits and Florida and all that.

Needless to say, Bush has been stroking his base. The gay-marriage issue is tantalizing and will draw many of his supporters to the polls. I know the Democratic base is energized. But is it big enough? Have we energized the people that stayed home and didn't vote for Gore in 2000?

[Massacure]

1. I thought the Conservative base is starting to grow a rift?

Bush shouldn't have to be worried about the base this late in the election. That is what the first three years of office are for.

[HawkerHurricane]

2. Lie #1

"and they simply didn't turn out for him"

Gore and Bush had record breaking numbers of voters turn out, and now the cons are claiming that his base didn't show? I don't think so; he's worried that he's done too little for them and they won't show this time.