1.  And because Bradley received support from Republicans and independents, he could help Gore woo swing voters who are likely to determine the outcome in closely contested states.

2.  A Nader supporter in a hotly contested state, for example, would contact a Gore supporter in a state that is considered safe for Republican George W. Bush.

3.  But his tentative schedule includes stops in closely contested states like Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan.

4.  But there would also be competition for Michigan, Wisconsin and other contested states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

5.  Cuban-Americans are a relatively small constituency, but they are highly influential in two hotly contested states.

6.  Evans told reporters Bush declined a vote recount in the closely contested state of Iowa.

7.  Even before the governors begin their campaign swing, Bush will be sending a team of women to the hotly contested states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania.

8.  For all his appeal as a seasoned, respected politician from the hotly contested state of Missouri, many Democrats said Gephardt was far from electrifying.

9.  Gore is trying to win the endorsement of the United Auto Workers, a political powerhouse in this closely contested state.

10.  He also plans to campaign next week in Florida, another hotly contested state.