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Lynette Fromme tried to assassinate President Ford in September 1975. Had she succeeded, Vice President Rockefeller would become President.

Rocky had quite the ego and I think he'd run for President in 1976. Let's say that after a resignation and an assassination, the conservatives in the GOP opt not to primary Rockefeller. He then proceeds to not even give them an olive branch when he picks a running mate.

Buckley and Helms proceed to run an independent conservative campaign.

Carter picks Proxmire trying to soak in part of the divided conservative vote.

I think Rockefeller likely picks Ed Brooke as his running mate in order to bolster the liberals within the party.

Thoughts? I'd think Rockefeller would win New York and Massachusetts here, though Buckley might win New York via plurality. Carter has the southern advantage, but maybe Helms could carry North Carolina for the ticket.
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