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There are numerous ways in which this could happen. For example, have Carter or the 1976 Democratic nominee lose to Ford or Reagan. Then by 1980, when things go awry for the incumbent Republican. the people will now be sick of 12 years of GOP rule and the turmoil of the years 1978-80, and crush them in the elections of that year.

For the Democratic nominee, it could be Carter (if he does not run in 1976), Ted Kennedy, Scoop Jackson (though he might die sooner), etc.

The Democratic landslide would also spread to Congress. IMO, The Democrats would have 70 Senate seats, enabling them to pass much of their agenda in the period 1981-82.

Economics-wise, the middle class, working class and poor will be protected with safety nets from the Democrats.

UHC, world-class education and whatnot will be promoted.

As the party of environmentalism, I can see them promoting HSR, clean energy, etc.

Socially, it depends. If a social conservative like Carter or a non-racist George Wallace (or any non-racist version of him wins), social conservatism could be protected more than IOTL because the Democratic center would still be alive. If it's a liberal Democrat, I think the US becomes more socially liberal than IOTL.

I don't know about 1982 on inflation yet. If the Democrats pass much of their agenda in 1981-82, and since their programs would raise inflation, would they be forced to accept Volcker's money-tightening policy?

How about detente?

What do you think, people? What would happen in a Democratic 1980s?
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