"I think there needed a better sense of responsibility of what was going on in the White House," Bush said, referring to allegations of improper actions involving Gore's visit to a Buddhist temple. "I've been disappointed about how he and his administration has conducted fundraising affairs."

Gore did not respond to the attack, saying he did not want to make the debate personal.

"You have attacked my character and credibility," Gore said. "I think we ought to attack our country's problems, not attack each other. You may want to focus on scandals. I want to focus on results."

The two used their closing remarks to reemphasize messages that they have focused on since their respective conventions, with both saying the current election will decide the future direction of the country.

"I want to go to Washington to get some positive things done," Bush said. "It's going to require a new spirit."

"We are at a fork in the road," Gore said.

A more immediate task was at hand last night. With most polls showing Gore with a lead well within margins of error, the two candidates are fighting for the roughly 10 percent of the electorate who are undecided.