The 2000 U.S. Presidential Election was a highly contested race between the Republican candidate, George W. Bush, and the Democratic candidate, Al Gore. The election took place on November 7, 2000, and was marked by a very close popular vote, with Gore receiving about 50.9% and Bush about 47.9%. The election ultimately hinged on the state of Florida, where a narrow margin of victory led to a recount. The U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Bush v. Gore effectively resolved the dispute, allowing Bush to win the presidency with 271 electoral votes to Gore's 266.