A previous comment mentioned Ralph's frustration that he had to compete with the NCAA tournament for the affections of Oregon voters. Here's a nice analysis from the Oregonian:
http://www.oregonlive.com/news/oregonian/david_sarasohn/index.ssf?/base/editorial/1081338943131750.x
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"And in the very first presidential returns out of Oregon this year, the results are University of Connecticut basketball team 1, Ralph Nader 0. And he was trying so hard to rebound.
....
His falling short Monday evening, and the campaign's explanation of a basketball interception, isn't likely to permanently set back his candidacy. But it may be that if you get knocked off early by the University of Connecticut, you don't belong in the final bracket with George Bush."