If, as their favorite candidates contend, America has too many lawyers, none considers himself to be among the surplus.

Each candidate contends he has the advantage in this race.

Both candidates contend that their stance is a matter of high principle.

Both candidates contend they can help Mr. Bush carry Pennsylvania, which he narrowly lost in 2000.

But other Democratic candidates contend that they have skills that are just as valuable.

The candidate contends that his proposal to end farm subsidies in five years is supported by many farmers and is very popular with other voters.

In a suit seeking to invalidate the election results, several losing candidates contended that the delays with the machines had been used to aid their opponents.

But some candidates who narrowly lost elections contend that the machines were jammed either accidentally or on purpose by election inspectors.

All the candidates contend that the war is an issue that could energize voters to support them.

Both candidates contended with internal party fights.