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NOVEMBER 16, 2000

Texas Governor George W. Bush has turned down an offer by Vice President Al Gore to finalize the results of the disputed election in Florida, as well as a chance to meet face-to-face to discuss the issue.

Gore appeared in national television last night to propose his solution to ending the dispute. He wants a recount of all the votes in Florida in exchange for ending all potential litigation.

Bush responded with a no. He said Gore just wants to keep recounting the votes after they've already been determined.

Earlier in the evening, Florida Secretary of State Katherine Harris issued her decision on pending recounts of some Florida counties. She said she will not accept them.

The Gore campaign is seeking an appeal to the Florida Supreme Court to ensure that addended vote counts will be respected. Meanwhile, the Bush campaign is seeking an appeal to decision that haad allowed the hand recounts to go forward.

Harris expects a final certification, which will included uncounted overseas ballots on Saturday. If Bush keeps his lead, the state's 25 electoral votes would go to him, giving him enough to win the Presidency, should any legal challenges fail.

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