Even Mr Bush's State of the Union speech last month, which concentrated heavily on the evil nature of Iraq, and was widely publicised, only added a few percentage points to public support for military action against Iraq.

BBC: Americans weigh Iraq evidence

Since its formation in 1971, the Front has steadily built up its support by a percentage point or two a year.

ECONOMIST: Uruguay

The poll said Gore's narrowing margin appeared to be the result of a 3 percentage point shift in voter support to Bush.

CNN: Poll: Gore lead in California cut in half in October