ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the question of whether it is possible to reach any understandings of a presidential candidate's judgment. If it is possible, on what basis might it proceed? What are the most promising frames of analysis through which to view the issues, and what cautions might be observed in doing so? The chapter focuses on the two respective 2000 election party nominees, George W. Bush and Albert Gore. It turns to an examination of the issues surrounding Republican party presidential hopeful John McCain's temper and psychology in relation to his judgment. The chapter provides useful perspectives to those whose interest in the issues lies in other geographical, political, and cultural domains. It presents evidence that a leader's interior psychology can play an important role in his political and policy judgments. The extent to which surrogate terms and discussions really clarify judgment issues raised by each candidate's psychology is questionable.
