The Washington Post newspaper says Mr Gore has filed documents with the Federal Election Commission - making him the first official Democrat candidate.

The documents create a Gore 2000 committee and allow him to raise money, hire staff and campaign across the country.

Mr Gore is currently considered a strong favourite for the Democrat party's nomination to run for president.

For the Republicans, the early front-runner is Texas Governor George W Bush - son of former president George Bush - though he has yet to declare his candidacy.

Over the next few weeks several politicians from both parties are expected to throw their hats into the ring.

They include former New Jersey Senator Bill Bradley, Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone - both Democrats - and former Republican Vice President Dan Quayle.