I was not paying as close attention to politics when Gore ran, but I don't recall anyone from the left making much to do about Kerry's service.

It was pointed out that 43 got special treatment to avoid service, and then failed to fulfill the requirements for that.

But nothing like what McCain did to tout his service. However I clearly was biased in both those campaigns, and although I woudl nto be surpised to find out that both touted their service about the same (or even if McCain did less), I am not going to just take your word for it.

Funny story, when McCain was running I was talking to a distant relative who said "Who cares about Palin, I am voting for McCain because I always vote for the Vet!" It took 2 seconds to ask if he really voted for Kerry, and he said "that was different".