But half of Bradley supporters and 4 in 10 Gore supporters said their minds were not entirely made up.

Bradley supporters at the committee meeting were in the minority, but fervent nonetheless.

They were also instructed in the script to "avoid mentioning caucus date" to Bradley supporters.

Elsewhere in the country, Bradley supporters could point to more organizational strength.

One reason is that about 15 company executives are Bradley supporters.

The Bradley supporters "were hoping for a surprise and they didn't get it," Mr. Whouley said.

A number of potential successors, many Bradley supporters, have been waiting in the wings for years.

Bradley supporters are appalled by the turn of events.

If Mr. Gore wins the nomination, the pounding could hurt his ability to attract Bradley supporters.

Bradley supporters like to contrast these qualities with what they see as the vice president's willingness to do almost anything it takes to win.