Why did the Repubs choose Bush over McCain in 2000?

[Mike Daniels]

By any standard of achievment, McCain was superior to Bush in practically every way...experience, background, intellect, ability to work with people on the other side of the aisle, etc....

From reading posts here it doesn't appear that McCain was anything but conservative on most issues - no moderate or liberals takes on anything. So, what killed him as far as primary chances are concerned?

I gather that the fundies were predominant in getting Bush selected but what was it specifically?

I have a feeling that if it had been McCain and Gore that McCain would have won by a significant margin as he had enough appeal to moderate and independent voter that the election wouldn't have been a repeat of Bush and Gore.

Anyone have any insights?

Sincerely,

Mike