For many scientists, however, the selection of the 44-year-old Democrat as Clinton's running mate immediately made sense. Far more than other lawmakers, Gore during his career in Washington has gained a reputation in the science community for being concerned, knowledgeable, and articulate on matters of science and technology. Researchers of various disciplines interviewed by The Scientist attest to this, saying they are impressed that Gore is well versed in scientific areas as diverse as space science, supercomputing, and biotechnology. On the other hand, some critics contend that Gore has misused scientific arguments in his recent book on global ecology--which they contend is a reflection of either undue influence on the senator from specific groups or a devious advancement of a political agenda.
I think his credentials, in terms of science, are probably better than those of anybody in the Congress," says Robert Park, public affairs director for the American Physical ...
