[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]THE MAN WITH THE IRON HEART[/FONT]
An AWESOME example of Alternate History.
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]An Introduction[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]This is Version 2.0 of my timeline, The Man With the Iron Heart. However, it is more of a reboot, because everything I have in this post is actually copy-pasted from the first thread. However, I do have a different plotline set up now, and I think it's pretty interesting.
What's the reasoning for this reboot? Well, I figured that, instead of continually starting new timelines that never even get off the ground, I should start redoing my old timeline ideas, so as to stop hogging the AH ideas.
However, I'm bound and determined to make this timeline an EPIC. And so, although this timeline revolves around the alternate life of OTL's alternate history author (and TTL's President of the United States) Harry Turtledove, I decided, just as I had with v1.0, to start it off with a crazy presidential election in 1980. You know, starting things off with a boom.
And so it starts. Although this first part has little to do with Harry Turtledove, the next updates will.
Also, I have a new idea for this timeline. Turtledove will still be an AH writer ITTL, and I want to post the alternate history he writes. And so, along with the main plot of this timeline, there will also be additional alternate histories involved, and they will cover practically everything (or so I hope).
So, let's get on with the TL. Enjoy!
[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]This is Version 2.0 of my timeline, The Man With the Iron Heart. However, it is more of a reboot, because everything I have in this post is actually copy-pasted from the first thread. However, I do have a different plotline set up now, and I think it's pretty interesting.
What's the reasoning for this reboot? Well, I figured that, instead of continually starting new timelines that never even get off the ground, I should start redoing my old timeline ideas, so as to stop hogging the AH ideas.
However, I'm bound and determined to make this timeline an EPIC. And so, although this timeline revolves around the alternate life of OTL's alternate history author (and TTL's President of the United States) Harry Turtledove, I decided, just as I had with v1.0, to start it off with a crazy presidential election in 1980. You know, starting things off with a boom.
And so it starts. Although this first part has little to do with Harry Turtledove, the next updates will.
Also, I have a new idea for this timeline. Turtledove will still be an AH writer ITTL, and I want to post the alternate history he writes. And so, along with the main plot of this timeline, there will also be additional alternate histories involved, and they will cover practically everything (or so I hope).
So, let's get on with the TL. Enjoy!
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[FONT=Times New Roman, serif] Part One[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]THE MAKING OF A PRESIDENT[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]THE MAKING OF A PRESIDENT[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]My fellow Americans:[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]As you know, there has been a hostage crisis ongoing in Tehran, Iran, for two weeks now. The Iranian people have seized the American embassy, and have taken many American hostages. I assure you that, in the past two weeks, I, as your constitutionally elected President, have taken many measures to retrieve the hostages, make peace with the Iranians, and end the hostage crisis. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]This is a time in American history when the President must forget his personal wishes and strive for the peace this nation deserves. I will focus entirely on the crisis in Iran and fixing the economy – and on nothing else. And so, I will not seek re-election to this office in the New Year, 1980. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I am aware of the political implications. Senator Kennedy has already announced his intention to challenge myself in the Democratic primaries. If he wishes to remain in the election, I respect that decision. If Vice President Mondale decides to run, I respect that decision as well. If Edward Kennedy is elected President, I will work with him to the best of my ability during the transition process. If Walter Mondale is elected President, I will work with him to the best of my ability during the transition process. If any of the Republicans are elected President, Iwill work with him to the best of my ability. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]What I know is that, whoever is inaugurated on January 20th, 1981, it will not be myself. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I ask this nation that, in the process of electing its 40th President, it consider which candidate has its best interests at heart; who will strive for them and the peace between the United States and all nations, friendly and hostile. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Thank you much for your time, and God bless.[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif] - Presidential Address of President James E. Carter, Nov. 20 1979[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I respect President Carter's decision not to seek re-election, and I praise his dedication to the job at hand. Now, as for the questions regarding my presidential candidacy, I would like to say that, two weeks ago, I was in to win when President Carter was in the race, and two weeks later, I still am.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) speaking at a Press Conference, Nov. 25 1979[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Washington Post – Editor's Opinion[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Nov. 27 1979[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]CARTER'S OUT; WHO'S UP TO PLATE?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]President Jimmy Carter has made quite an unusual political move in not running for re-election next year. Indeed, this is a rare move by an American President; the last time a sitting president has decided against a second term was when President Calvin Coolidge, Republican, sat aside during the 1928 presidential election. In that election, Republican Herbert Hoover crushed Democrat Al Smith in a landslide. But will 1980 turn out similarly?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Before President Carter announced his non-candidacy, Senator Edward Kennedy had announced his decision to challenge the president in the primaries; however, polls showed Carter far ahead of Senator Kennedy in the polls. Now, with Carter out of the race, Kennedy is the only announced candidate seeking the Democratic presidential nomination. And in the Republican field, former California Governor and 1976 presidential candidate Ronald Reagan is facing off with CIA Director George Bush, Congressman John Anderson of Illinois, Congressman Phil Crane of Illinois, Senate Minority Leader Howard Baker, and Senator and 1976 Republican vice presidential nominee Robet Dole of Kansas. Who will win?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Here is this editor's opinions on each primary race. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Republican Primaries – There was speculation earlier this year that former President Gerald Ford, narrowly defeated by Democrat Jimmy Carter in 1976 and nemesis of Governor Reagan in the 1976 Republican primaries, would run again; however, he declined. Therefore, one would assume that Governor Reagan would be the undisputed frontrunner, but instead, he is facing stiff opposition from George Bush. According to opinion polls, Bush has a chance at winning the Iowa caucus, the first in a long line of statewide primaries and caucuses held in the Republican nominating process. If he wins victory in Iowa, Mr. Bush could carry his earned momentum to the other primaries, and upset Reagan for the Republican nomination. In summary: Governor Ronald Reagan is the main frontrunner, though George Bush could also win. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Democratic Primaries – As mentioned earlier, Senator Kennedy is currently the only announced candidate. Where does this leave the moderate, conservative, and pro-administration wings of the Democratic Party? There has been speculation of a presidential bid by Vice President Walter Mondale, who has yet to announce, though Kennedy and Mondale are similar in ideology. Senator Lloyd Bentsen, a moderate Democrat who has represented Texas in the Senate since 1971, could easily take up the moderate flag and challenge Kennedy and/or Mondale for the nomination. In summary: Kennedy could easily win the nomination, but so could Walter Mondale or a moderate Democrat.[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]In light of President Carter's decision, I am considering a presidential bid. But don't be disappointed if I don't run.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) at a press conference, Nov. 26 1979[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]SEN. KENNEDY: Alright, I'll make this short. We have confirmed a date; my campaign staff and I are going to fly down to Iowa on Monday, December 10, to kick off the presidential campaign in Des Moines. We are very intent on winning there, because it is very important that we show the other states the enthusiasm for the campaign. I'll take a few questions. Jim?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #1: Senator, do you have any comments on Robert Byrd's announcement?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]SEN. KENNEDY: I understand that Senator Byrd has indicated his interest in a presidential bid. However, he has not said that he will. But if he decides on running, then I'm confident that my campaign can take him on. Dave?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #2: How about Mondale, or Lloyd Bentsen?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]SEN. KENNEDY: Same with them – I believe our campaign has a good chance, regardless of who enters and who stays out.[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Edward Kennedy Press Conference, Nov. 29 1979[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I have reached a decision with regard to the upcoming presidential campaign: I will not seek the 1980 Democratic nomination. Instead, I will serve out the rest of my term as Vice President, so as to help President Carter in this time of crisis.”[/FONT]
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[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Vice President Walter Mondale (D-MN) at a press conference, Dec. 1 1979[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Q: Did you give any thought to running for president in 1980?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]A: Well, Jimmy told me about his decision a few days before he made the announcement. Yes, I did give it a fair bit of consideration; after all, I was the Vice President of the United States, who was a heartbeat away from the presidency already. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Q: Of course, Kennedy was already running, and he is similar to you in many of your policies...[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]A: That's another reason I didn't run; I liked Kennedy, and I thought he was the only liberal Democrat who had a chance at beating Reagan or anyone the GOP nominated. He was charismatic, and even if Chapaquiddick was a liability, he did have his supporters. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Q: What do you think might have happened if you ran?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]A: Oh, I stand by what I did – in the end, it really was best that I didn't run. If I had, Ted and I would probably be running on the same platform, and both of us would just be looking at little details to magnify. It wouldn't have worked out, and it would have damaged the party and our careers. [/FONT]
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[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- From The Star Tribune's interview with Walter Mondale, Mar. 2 1988 Edition[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I have my beliefs and my political positions that I wish to bring to the White House, so that's right, I am running for the Democratic nomination.”[/FONT]
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[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Gov. Jerry Brown (D-CA) at a press conference, Dec. 2 1979[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Next year, we'll be having ourselves a presidential race. Now, everybody's looking at Ted Kennedy and Jerry Brown and Lloyd Bentsen as the major candidates. But they've overlooked the people's candidate, who's going to be the Governor of Mississippi in 1980!”[/FONT]
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[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Gov. Cliff Finch (D-MS) announcing his presidential candidacy, Dec. 5 1979[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The rumors are true: I am a Democratic presidential candidate.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Sen. Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) at a press conference, Dec. 5 1979[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Des Moines Register – Editor's Opinion[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]December 15 1979[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Predictions for the Caucus[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Iowa has been the center of national attention ever since the presidential campaign kicked off in early November. The Iowa presidential caucus is seen as one of the main deciders in the making of a party's presidential nominee, and this year is no exception. Both of the fields are crowded: On the Democratic side, we have Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy, West Virginia Senator Robert Byrd, Texas Senator Lloyd Bentsen, Mississippi Governor Cliff Finch, and California Governor Jerry Brown; on the Republican side, we have California Governor Ronald Reagan, Mr. George Bush of Texas, Tennessee Senator Howard Baker, Kansas Senator Robert Dole, and two Illinois congressmen, John Anderson and Phil Crane. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The five Democratic contenders are tightly bunched together in the opinion polls, as much of the conservative Democratic vote is being split evenly between Senators Byrd and Bentsen and Governor Finch, while Senator Kennedy is leading Governor Brown in the liberal vote. Put together, in the most recent poll, Bentsen is narrowly leading Kennedy and Byrd by three points, while Finch and Brown are both tied at 14%. Both Senator Bentsen and Senator Kennedy have been running pro-farmer campaigns, which have given them valuable momentum in the polls. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The two main Republican contenders are Governor Reagan and Mr. Bush. Ronald Reagan, who was Governor of California from 1967 to 1975 and a near-successful primary challenger to President Ford in 1976, was the original frontrunner who seemed certain to win. However, Bush has been gaining miraculously in the polls, and in the most recent one, George Bush is two points ahead of Governor Reagan. If turnout for the Republican caucus is higher, it is certainly possible for Reagan to defeat Bush and take back the nomination that seemed certain to be his. [/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I certainly don't trust Governor Reagan in his economic policies. He wants to continue working on our defense systems and spend on our military, but at the same time, he wants to cut most of our monetary resources. Apparently, Governor Reagan's new mathematical equation is 10 – 30 equals 9.”[/FONT]
- [FONT=Times New Roman, serif]George Bush campaigning in Des Moines, Iowa, Dec. 19 1979[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Iowa Democratic Presidential Caucus, Jan. 21 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 24.4%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 23.7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Robert Byrd – 23.4%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 18%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Jerry Brown – 10%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Iowa Republican Presidential Caucus, Jan. 21 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 35%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 29%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Howard Baker – 15%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 9%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. Phil Crane – 7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. John Anderson – 7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Bob Dole – 3%[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I'm very disappointed in my standing in the Iowa caucus. I get the message, so I will no longer be a candidate for the presidency. To those who were going to vote for me in future primaries, I'll tell you that I support George Bush for President of the United States. Don't let the same old Democrats steal your money like they have since the days of FDR.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Sen. Robert Dole (R-KS) withdrawing from the Republican presidential primaries, Jan. 22 1980[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]We've won here. It wasn't easy, but we won. So now, let's move on to New Hampshire and win there!”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Sen. Ted Kennedy at his victory rally in Des Moines, Jan. 21 1980
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“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]After the Iowa caucus, all hell broke loose for the Republican Party.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gerald Ford Press Conference, Jan. 25 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORMER PRESIDENT GERALD FORD: Good day to you all. I just have a – well, an important announcement to make. I know that there was some speculation earlier that I would run for a, well, a “second” term this year. And I know I said I wouldn't. But I've seen what the candidates have to say, and I don't quite like it. Governor Reagan, like in 1976, just doesn't get it, and George Bush comes close, but he's still out of tune. The caucus in Iowa was pretty close, and I think it just goes to show that the main competitors this year are going to be Governor Reagan and Mr. Bush, so I think that Americans need a third way. And so, I would like to inform you all that I have registered myself as a candidate for the Republican nomination, and I will be on the ballot in New Hampshire, and I will actively campaign for it. I believe my chances at winning are as good as Reagan's and Bush's, even if I'm a former president. Any questions? Jim?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #1: Mr. President, do you think you have a chance at winning the New Hampshire primary?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORD: I may. Like I said, I represent a third way for the American people, and I hope that the Republican voters in New Hampshire will learn that I stand for what's best, not Reagan or Bush. Bill?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #2: Are you registered to stand on the ballot in Puerto Rico? After all, that's a little more than a week before New Hampshire...[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORD: I will not – the polls very clearly indicate that Mr. Bush will win Puerto Rico, and I think it will be a better strategy for the campaign to focus on New Hampshire. Jack?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #3: Is this in any way a rematch with Reagan, or revenge against Reagan? [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORD: I do not. I knew this was an implication of a presidential run when I considered the option, but I hope to make it clear that I am not getting revenge against Governor Reagan, regardless of whether I win or not. [/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]This [Ford's announcement] was a complete shock to the Republican Party. There was panic in the hierarchy, as they struggled between who to support; there was chaos in the individual presidential campaigns, especially in Bush's and Reagan's; and the Republican primary voters noticed the race become much more complicated, and so were confused. For one of the many times in the campaign, it looked as though the Democrats could retain the White House after all.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The New York Times – Editor's Opinion[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]February 1, 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire: Reward for the Victor, Abyss for the Defeated[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]With the Iowa caucus having been held, the next major contest for the nomination will be held in New Hampshire on February 26, and the results of this primary could very well determine the victor. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Republican Primary – Nine days before on the New Hampshire primary, the Republicans will hold a primary in Puerto Rico. Governor Reagan, a frontrunner who narrowly lost the Iowa caucus to Mr. Bush, will not be on the ballot, as well as the newest candidate, former President Gerald Ford. The only candidates who will be contesting for victory in Puerto Rico will be George Bush, Senator Howard Baker, and Governor John Connally. Mr. Bush has been leading in most of the polls held there, and is the certain victor; the question is: Will he carry this momentum to New Hampshire and win narrow victory?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The polls have stated that New Hampshire is a tossup. Last Wednesday, a statewide poll shows Governor Reagan and President Ford tied exactly at 18%, while Bush is holding a third at 12%. Congressman John Anderson of Illinois, representing the moderate faction of the GOP, is polling fourth at 8%. Baker and Connally have tied for fifth with 5%, while Congressman Phil Crane of Illinois is holding last at 3%. Governor Reagan has been running a strong conservative campaign, Mr. Bush a strong moderate campaign, while President Ford has been running a moderate, “Third Way” campaign, and either three of these are the most likely candidates to carry New Hampshire, a major stepping stone to the coveted Republican presidential nomination.[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Democratic Primary – Senator Edward Kennedy, the victor of the Iowa caucus, is leading in most polls over his four competitors. The campaign has mainly been a battle of the factions; Kennedy and Governor Jerry Brown representing the liberal faction, Senators Lloyd Bentsen and Robert Byrd representing the moderate factions, and Governor Cliff Finch representing the conservative faction. In moderate New Hampshire, Sen. Kennedy has been facing tough competition from Senator Bentsen (in second), Byrd in third, Brown in fourth, and Finch in fifth in the polls. The victor of this primary will be determined by which faction will win out over the others. [/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I felt a sense of liberation from politics when I announced [my intention to stay out of the presidential race]. I paid attention to the events of the campaign, and I understood what each candidate was promising, yet I felt that I could actually focus on my job again. The presidency was a hard office to manage in 1980, and it would have been impossible to work with a presidential campaign to worry about.[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Foreign affairs was a mess in 1980 ... In Afghanistan, the Soviets were fighting the Mujahideen for control of the area. Originally, the CIA was supporting the Mujahideen and sending weapons and supplies to them, so that they could effectively fight the Soviet Union. In Iran, the Hostage Crisis was ongoing, and my Cabinet and I were devising a plan to rescue the hostages. And at home, we were looking at ways to fix the economy.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Puerto Rico Republican Presidential Primary, Feb. 17 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]George Bush – 63%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 20%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Howard Baker – 10%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Write-in – 7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]BUSH WINS PUERTO RICO, CONNALLY UPSETS BAKER FOR SECOND[/FONT]
George Herbert Walker Bush, March 1980. The Bush for President campaign had snowballed momentum from their two early primary wins in Iowa and Puerto Rico.
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The race to win Puerto Rico was actually two races. The first race, obviously, was to win the Puerto Rican primary, but after the polls showed George Bush far ahead of Connally and Baker in the polls, it became virtually unimportant. The second race was important to the Connally and Baker campaigns, and that was the race to win second; whoever won second would win momentum, and whoever lost would likely be forced out of the race. For most of the campaign, Baker was at least seven points ahead of Connally in the polls; and so, when Connally won 20% of the vote and defeated Baker by ten points in a major upset, the victory was huge for John Connally and devastating to Howard Baker.”[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Well, I'm here to announce that I'm leaving the race for the Republican nomination, and I want you all to let your readers know that I fully support Ronald Reagan's campaign, and I'll be voting for him when Tennessee's primary comes along.”[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire was a little more trouble for us than expected. Lloyd Bentsen was putting up a tough fight as he gained attraction from moderates, and even some conservatives, seeing Governor Finch as a dead dog, turned to Bentsen as their candidate. Knowing that we needed them, we tried to attract some of the moderate Democrats through some of my foreign policy positions, yet by the day of the primary, the results were up in the air. Meanwhile, the Republicans were waiting nervously, pondering who would win their primary.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire Republican Presidential Primary, Feb. 26 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 28%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Pres. Gerald Ford – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. John Anderson – 20.7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 20.2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 3.2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. Phil Crane - 1.9%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire Democratic Presidential Primary, Feb. 26 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 40%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 35%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 13%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Robert Byrd – 6%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Jerry Brown – 6%[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I'm not disappointed about the results of the primary, and I congratulate Senator Kennedy on his victory. And speaking of Ted Kennedy, I would like to endorse his presidential campaign, and I will campaign for him throughout the election, and I hope to be present when he is inaugurated as our 40th President.”[/FONT]
Governor Jerry Brown of California, February 1980, shortly before his withdrawal and endorsement of Ted Kennedy.
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REAGAN, KENNEDY NEW HAMPSHIRE VICTORS[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Brown Endorses Kennedy, Anderson Takes Third In Upset[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I'm not disappointed about New Hampshire; in fact, I'm very proud of my standing. I got in the top three, so I'm staying in the race. I'm in to win, and I'm convinced we can.”[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]We may have placed fourth, but I'm still running. Anderson's upset was pure luck, and I know that we don't have to worry about him..”[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]After New Hampshire, I spent a few days campaigning in Vermont, whose primary was on March 4, along with Massachusetts'. It being my home state, I was certain to win victory there, and I was leading the other candidates in Vermont. On March 2, two days before those primaries, I left Vermont to begin campaigning in the South, where several states were holding primaries over the next few weeks.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Vermont Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 52.9%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 42.5%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 5%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Massachusetts Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy (native) – 76%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 13%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 11%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Vermont Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. John Anderson – 27%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 21%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Massachusetts Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 21%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush - 20%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 19%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. John Anderson – 18%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 8%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. Phil Crane – 4%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]KENNEDY WINS VT, MA; ANDERSON TAKES VERMONT, FORD MA[/FONT]
Congressman John B. Anderson of Illinois, Republican presidential candidate. Congressman Anderson, a moderate Rockefeller Republican who represented Illinois's 16th Congressional District since 1961, won a victory in Vermont over both Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford, keeping him in the presidential race.
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Ford's victory in Massachusetts brought the Reagan campaign into chaos. They hadn't won a primary since New Hampshire, when they had originally been expected to win both Vermont and Massachusetts – both of which they lost and placed third. Thankfully for them, Governor Reagan was expected to win massive victories in the Southern primaries over the next few days, but surprisingly, a victory in Florida was in doubt, as Ford was tied with Reagan in the polls there. Over the next week, Governor Reagan would spend a massive amount of time campaigning across the state, so as to solidify his hold on the South and, so they hoped, the Republican nomination.”[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I can assure you that under my administration, there will be a prosperous economy. When Gerald Ford was president, the economy suffered; it did not bloom, it was not prosperous. Can we trust him to make it better, when he only made it suffer more?”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]South Carolina Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 8 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 32%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 31%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 20%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 15%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. Phil Crane – 2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]South Carolina Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 8 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 39%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch - 28%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Robert Byrd – 8%[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I am withdrawing from the presidential race, but I would like to give my full support and good luck to Senator Bentsen, our next president.”[/FONT]
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[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The American people have repudiated me as a candidate, and so, I am withdrawing from the presidential race. And now, I want all my supporters to know that my candidate is John Connally, and he's their candidate too.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Alabama Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 57.6%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 21.3%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 21.1%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Alabama Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 55%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 22%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 21%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Florida Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 41%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 40%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 19%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Florida Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 35.2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 34.8%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 29%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 1%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Georgia Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 36.1%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 35.4%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy - 28.5%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Georgia Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 81%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 9.7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 9.3%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The New York Times – Editor's Opinion[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]March 15, 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The General Election Match-Up[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The race for the Democratic and Republican Party nominations have grown competitive over the last few months, and the question that is on everyone's mind is who will eventually win. We will look at each individual race, and then we will look at the possibilities for the general election. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Democratic Field – Senator Edward M. “Ted” Kennedy (D-MA) has been the strongest candidate throughout the Democratic campaign. Senator Kennedy won a strong victory in Iowa and New Hampshire, won his home state decisively, and has taken Florida in a tight race with Senator Lloyd M. Bentsen (D-TX). Senator Kennedy has strong showings in polls for the Illinois primary, coming up in three days, and barring any major changes to the campaign, he is likely to win a blowout victory there. If the third Kennedy to run for President keeps this momentum, he is almost certain to win the nomination. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Republican Field – This one is different, and can eerily remind us of the election only four years ago. Former President Gerald Ford, who competed as an incumbent with Governor Ronald Reagan in the Republican primaries in 1976, has once again decided to run, and is playing a strong challenge to Reagan's nomination. In Georgia, where he was expected to place third in a Reagan landslide, he instead upsetted George Bush for second, and in Florida, he upsetted Governor Reagan to win the primary itself. The rest of the race seems to depend on Illinois. If Reagan wins Illinois, he will have proven that he can defeat a former president, and will likely win; if Gerald Ford wins Illinois, it will be a major credential to the campaign that could carry it to the Republican nomination a second consecutive time. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The General Election – As stated, it seems likely that the Democrats will nominate Ted Kennedy. The senior senator from Massachusetts will likely choose a moderate Southerner to balance the ticket and keep the moderates from leaving the ticket – namewise, Lloyd Bentsen, the perfect choice for the Kennedy campaign. Meanwhile, the several branches of the GOP are involved in fighting between Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, and George Bush.
[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The General Election – As stated, it seems likely that the Democrats will nominate Ted Kennedy. The senior senator from Massachusetts will likely choose a moderate Southerner to balance the ticket and keep the moderates from leaving the ticket – namewise, Lloyd Bentsen, the perfect choice for the Kennedy campaign. Meanwhile, the several branches of the GOP are involved in fighting between Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, and George Bush.
[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Democratic presidential candidate, April 1980. Kennedy, the frontrunner throughout the entire campaign who originally intended to challenge President Carter, was expected to win the Democratic nomination after his victory in the Florida Democratic primary. [/FONT]
Former Governor Ronald Reagan of California, Republican presidential candidate. Reagan, the original frontrunner, was bogged down by Bush's upset victory in Iowa and Gerald Ford's sudden entry into the presidential campaign in late January 1980.
Former President Gerald Ford at a campaign rally in Florida, March 1980. Ford was considered a frontrunner immediately after his unexpected presidential candidacy.
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Anonymous Ford for President Campaign Worker, interviewed 1981[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gerald Ford Press Conference, Jan. 25 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORMER PRESIDENT GERALD FORD: Good day to you all. I just have a – well, an important announcement to make. I know that there was some speculation earlier that I would run for a, well, a “second” term this year. And I know I said I wouldn't. But I've seen what the candidates have to say, and I don't quite like it. Governor Reagan, like in 1976, just doesn't get it, and George Bush comes close, but he's still out of tune. The caucus in Iowa was pretty close, and I think it just goes to show that the main competitors this year are going to be Governor Reagan and Mr. Bush, so I think that Americans need a third way. And so, I would like to inform you all that I have registered myself as a candidate for the Republican nomination, and I will be on the ballot in New Hampshire, and I will actively campaign for it. I believe my chances at winning are as good as Reagan's and Bush's, even if I'm a former president. Any questions? Jim?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #1: Mr. President, do you think you have a chance at winning the New Hampshire primary?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORD: I may. Like I said, I represent a third way for the American people, and I hope that the Republican voters in New Hampshire will learn that I stand for what's best, not Reagan or Bush. Bill?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #2: Are you registered to stand on the ballot in Puerto Rico? After all, that's a little more than a week before New Hampshire...[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORD: I will not – the polls very clearly indicate that Mr. Bush will win Puerto Rico, and I think it will be a better strategy for the campaign to focus on New Hampshire. Jack?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REPORTER #3: Is this in any way a rematch with Reagan, or revenge against Reagan? [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]FORD: I do not. I knew this was an implication of a presidential run when I considered the option, but I hope to make it clear that I am not getting revenge against Governor Reagan, regardless of whether I win or not. [/FONT]
Former President Gerald Ford. The former president defeated by Jimmy Carter in 1976 shocked all after the Iowa presidential caucus by announcing his presidential candidacy - effectively a rematch with Ronald Reagan in the Republican primaries.
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]This [Ford's announcement] was a complete shock to the Republican Party. There was panic in the hierarchy, as they struggled between who to support; there was chaos in the individual presidential campaigns, especially in Bush's and Reagan's; and the Republican primary voters noticed the race become much more complicated, and so were confused. For one of the many times in the campaign, it looked as though the Democrats could retain the White House after all.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- The Making of a President, John White, c. 1981[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The New York Times – Editor's Opinion[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]February 1, 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire: Reward for the Victor, Abyss for the Defeated[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]With the Iowa caucus having been held, the next major contest for the nomination will be held in New Hampshire on February 26, and the results of this primary could very well determine the victor. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Republican Primary – Nine days before on the New Hampshire primary, the Republicans will hold a primary in Puerto Rico. Governor Reagan, a frontrunner who narrowly lost the Iowa caucus to Mr. Bush, will not be on the ballot, as well as the newest candidate, former President Gerald Ford. The only candidates who will be contesting for victory in Puerto Rico will be George Bush, Senator Howard Baker, and Governor John Connally. Mr. Bush has been leading in most of the polls held there, and is the certain victor; the question is: Will he carry this momentum to New Hampshire and win narrow victory?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The polls have stated that New Hampshire is a tossup. Last Wednesday, a statewide poll shows Governor Reagan and President Ford tied exactly at 18%, while Bush is holding a third at 12%. Congressman John Anderson of Illinois, representing the moderate faction of the GOP, is polling fourth at 8%. Baker and Connally have tied for fifth with 5%, while Congressman Phil Crane of Illinois is holding last at 3%. Governor Reagan has been running a strong conservative campaign, Mr. Bush a strong moderate campaign, while President Ford has been running a moderate, “Third Way” campaign, and either three of these are the most likely candidates to carry New Hampshire, a major stepping stone to the coveted Republican presidential nomination.[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Democratic Primary – Senator Edward Kennedy, the victor of the Iowa caucus, is leading in most polls over his four competitors. The campaign has mainly been a battle of the factions; Kennedy and Governor Jerry Brown representing the liberal faction, Senators Lloyd Bentsen and Robert Byrd representing the moderate factions, and Governor Cliff Finch representing the conservative faction. In moderate New Hampshire, Sen. Kennedy has been facing tough competition from Senator Bentsen (in second), Byrd in third, Brown in fourth, and Finch in fifth in the polls. The victor of this primary will be determined by which faction will win out over the others. [/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I felt a sense of liberation from politics when I announced [my intention to stay out of the presidential race]. I paid attention to the events of the campaign, and I understood what each candidate was promising, yet I felt that I could actually focus on my job again. The presidency was a hard office to manage in 1980, and it would have been impossible to work with a presidential campaign to worry about.[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Foreign affairs was a mess in 1980 ... In Afghanistan, the Soviets were fighting the Mujahideen for control of the area. Originally, the CIA was supporting the Mujahideen and sending weapons and supplies to them, so that they could effectively fight the Soviet Union. In Iran, the Hostage Crisis was ongoing, and my Cabinet and I were devising a plan to rescue the hostages. And at home, we were looking at ways to fix the economy.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Keeping Faith: The Memoirs of a President, Jimmy Carter, c. 1982[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Puerto Rico Republican Presidential Primary, Feb. 17 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]George Bush – 63%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 20%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Howard Baker – 10%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Write-in – 7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]BUSH WINS PUERTO RICO, CONNALLY UPSETS BAKER FOR SECOND[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Headline of the Washington Post, Feb. 18 1980[/FONT]
George Herbert Walker Bush, March 1980. The Bush for President campaign had snowballed momentum from their two early primary wins in Iowa and Puerto Rico.
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The race to win Puerto Rico was actually two races. The first race, obviously, was to win the Puerto Rican primary, but after the polls showed George Bush far ahead of Connally and Baker in the polls, it became virtually unimportant. The second race was important to the Connally and Baker campaigns, and that was the race to win second; whoever won second would win momentum, and whoever lost would likely be forced out of the race. For most of the campaign, Baker was at least seven points ahead of Connally in the polls; and so, when Connally won 20% of the vote and defeated Baker by ten points in a major upset, the victory was huge for John Connally and devastating to Howard Baker.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- 1980: The Making of a President by John White, c. 1982[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Well, I'm here to announce that I'm leaving the race for the Republican nomination, and I want you all to let your readers know that I fully support Ronald Reagan's campaign, and I'll be voting for him when Tennessee's primary comes along.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Sen. Howard Baker (R-TN) withdrawing from the presidential race, Feb. 20 1980[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire was a little more trouble for us than expected. Lloyd Bentsen was putting up a tough fight as he gained attraction from moderates, and even some conservatives, seeing Governor Finch as a dead dog, turned to Bentsen as their candidate. Knowing that we needed them, we tried to attract some of the moderate Democrats through some of my foreign policy positions, yet by the day of the primary, the results were up in the air. Meanwhile, the Republicans were waiting nervously, pondering who would win their primary.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- True Compass: A Memoir, Ted Kennedy, 2009[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire Republican Presidential Primary, Feb. 26 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 28%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Pres. Gerald Ford – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. John Anderson – 20.7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 20.2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 3.2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. Phil Crane - 1.9%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]New Hampshire Democratic Presidential Primary, Feb. 26 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 40%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 35%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 13%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Robert Byrd – 6%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Jerry Brown – 6%[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I'm not disappointed about the results of the primary, and I congratulate Senator Kennedy on his victory. And speaking of Ted Kennedy, I would like to endorse his presidential campaign, and I will campaign for him throughout the election, and I hope to be present when he is inaugurated as our 40th President.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif] - Gov. Jerry Brown (D-CA) endorsing Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Feb. 28 1980[/FONT]
Governor Jerry Brown of California, February 1980, shortly before his withdrawal and endorsement of Ted Kennedy.
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]REAGAN, KENNEDY NEW HAMPSHIRE VICTORS[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Brown Endorses Kennedy, Anderson Takes Third In Upset[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- The New York Times, Feb. 27 1980[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I'm not disappointed about New Hampshire; in fact, I'm very proud of my standing. I got in the top three, so I'm staying in the race. I'm in to win, and I'm convinced we can.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Rep. John Anderson (R-IL) at a press conference, Feb. 28 1980[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]We may have placed fourth, but I'm still running. Anderson's upset was pure luck, and I know that we don't have to worry about him..”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- George Bush at a press conference, Feb. 28 1980[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]After New Hampshire, I spent a few days campaigning in Vermont, whose primary was on March 4, along with Massachusetts'. It being my home state, I was certain to win victory there, and I was leading the other candidates in Vermont. On March 2, two days before those primaries, I left Vermont to begin campaigning in the South, where several states were holding primaries over the next few weeks.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- True Compass: A Memoir by Ted Kennedy[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Vermont Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 52.9%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 42.5%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 5%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Massachusetts Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy (native) – 76%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 13%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 11%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Vermont Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. John Anderson – 27%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 21%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Massachusetts Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 4 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 21%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush - 20%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 19%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. John Anderson – 18%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 8%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. Phil Crane – 4%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]KENNEDY WINS VT, MA; ANDERSON TAKES VERMONT, FORD MA[/FONT]
- [FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Washington Post Headline, Mar. 5 1980[/FONT]
Congressman John B. Anderson of Illinois, Republican presidential candidate. Congressman Anderson, a moderate Rockefeller Republican who represented Illinois's 16th Congressional District since 1961, won a victory in Vermont over both Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford, keeping him in the presidential race.
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Ford's victory in Massachusetts brought the Reagan campaign into chaos. They hadn't won a primary since New Hampshire, when they had originally been expected to win both Vermont and Massachusetts – both of which they lost and placed third. Thankfully for them, Governor Reagan was expected to win massive victories in the Southern primaries over the next few days, but surprisingly, a victory in Florida was in doubt, as Ford was tied with Reagan in the polls there. Over the next week, Governor Reagan would spend a massive amount of time campaigning across the state, so as to solidify his hold on the South and, so they hoped, the Republican nomination.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- 1980: The Making of a President, John White, c. 1981[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I can assure you that under my administration, there will be a prosperous economy. When Gerald Ford was president, the economy suffered; it did not bloom, it was not prosperous. Can we trust him to make it better, when he only made it suffer more?”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Ronald Reagan campaigning in Southern Florida, Mar. 7 1981[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]South Carolina Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 8 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 32%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 31%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 20%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 15%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Rep. Phil Crane – 2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]South Carolina Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 8 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 39%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch - 28%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 26%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Robert Byrd – 8%[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]I am withdrawing from the presidential race, but I would like to give my full support and good luck to Senator Bentsen, our next president.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]
[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) at a press conference, Mar. 10 1980[/FONT]
“[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The American people have repudiated me as a candidate, and so, I am withdrawing from the presidential race. And now, I want all my supporters to know that my candidate is John Connally, and he's their candidate too.”[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]- Rep. Phil Crane (R-IL) at his final campaign rally, Mar. 8 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Alabama Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 57.6%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 21.3%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 21.1%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Alabama Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 55%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 22%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 21%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Florida Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy – 41%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 40%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 19%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Florida Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 35.2%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 34.8%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 29%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. John Connally – 1%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Georgia Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Lloyd Bentsen – 36.1%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Cliff Finch – 35.4%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Sen. Edward Kennedy - 28.5%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Georgia Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 11 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Gov. Ronald Reagan – 81%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Former President Gerald Ford – 9.7%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Director George Bush – 9.3%[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The New York Times – Editor's Opinion[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]March 15, 1980[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The General Election Match-Up[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The race for the Democratic and Republican Party nominations have grown competitive over the last few months, and the question that is on everyone's mind is who will eventually win. We will look at each individual race, and then we will look at the possibilities for the general election. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Democratic Field – Senator Edward M. “Ted” Kennedy (D-MA) has been the strongest candidate throughout the Democratic campaign. Senator Kennedy won a strong victory in Iowa and New Hampshire, won his home state decisively, and has taken Florida in a tight race with Senator Lloyd M. Bentsen (D-TX). Senator Kennedy has strong showings in polls for the Illinois primary, coming up in three days, and barring any major changes to the campaign, he is likely to win a blowout victory there. If the third Kennedy to run for President keeps this momentum, he is almost certain to win the nomination. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The Republican Field – This one is different, and can eerily remind us of the election only four years ago. Former President Gerald Ford, who competed as an incumbent with Governor Ronald Reagan in the Republican primaries in 1976, has once again decided to run, and is playing a strong challenge to Reagan's nomination. In Georgia, where he was expected to place third in a Reagan landslide, he instead upsetted George Bush for second, and in Florida, he upsetted Governor Reagan to win the primary itself. The rest of the race seems to depend on Illinois. If Reagan wins Illinois, he will have proven that he can defeat a former president, and will likely win; if Gerald Ford wins Illinois, it will be a major credential to the campaign that could carry it to the Republican nomination a second consecutive time. [/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The General Election – As stated, it seems likely that the Democrats will nominate Ted Kennedy. The senior senator from Massachusetts will likely choose a moderate Southerner to balance the ticket and keep the moderates from leaving the ticket – namewise, Lloyd Bentsen, the perfect choice for the Kennedy campaign. Meanwhile, the several branches of the GOP are involved in fighting between Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, and George Bush.
[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman, serif]The General Election – As stated, it seems likely that the Democrats will nominate Ted Kennedy. The senior senator from Massachusetts will likely choose a moderate Southerner to balance the ticket and keep the moderates from leaving the ticket – namewise, Lloyd Bentsen, the perfect choice for the Kennedy campaign. Meanwhile, the several branches of the GOP are involved in fighting between Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, and George Bush.
[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Democratic presidential candidate, April 1980. Kennedy, the frontrunner throughout the entire campaign who originally intended to challenge President Carter, was expected to win the Democratic nomination after his victory in the Florida Democratic primary. [/FONT]
Former Governor Ronald Reagan of California, Republican presidential candidate. Reagan, the original frontrunner, was bogged down by Bush's upset victory in Iowa and Gerald Ford's sudden entry into the presidential campaign in late January 1980.
Former President Gerald Ford at a campaign rally in Florida, March 1980. Ford was considered a frontrunner immediately after his unexpected presidential candidacy.
"Ted Kennedy is my candidate, Chicago's candidate, Illinois's candidate, and America's candidate!"
BUSH TO WITHDRAW PENDING RESULTS OF ILLINOIS PRIMARY
Amarillo, TX - News has come from the Bush for President headquarters in Amarillo that Republican presidential candidate and CIA Director George Bush will withdraw from the presidential race depending on the results of the upcoming Illinois primary. "Mr. Bush doesn't believe in a protracted campaign that will only waste money and valuable time," his spokesman said at the Bush HQ in Amarillo. "And so, if he does not win the Illinois primary, he will withdraw from the race and endorse another candidate. He would like me to inform that you all that, yes, that candidate will be in the Republican Party, and is currently running." According to the polls, Mr. Bush is not expected to win Illinois or even third place.
Illinois Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 18 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 25%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 22%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 22%
George Bush - 16%
Gov. John Connally - 15%
Illinois Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 18 1980
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 62%
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 24%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 14%S
"My fellow Americans," George Bush said to the crowd at his defeat rally. "I just heard that Mr. Ford has won Illinois. I congratulate the former president on his victory. But for now, I'm going to talk about what we've done.
"We started out well. We won Iowa, and then we won Puerto Rico. For a long time, everything looked good for our campaign. But since then, we've been on the retreat, and America's opinion of that showed during the primaries. Well, I won't stay in the race; America doesn't want George Bush in 1980. We did our darndest to win, but there comes a time when every good, qualified candidate must admit defeat. I apologize for all those in the future primaries that were going to vote for me; now, you must find a different candidate. But Texas hasn't voted yet, so neither have I. Who am I going to vote for? Through the process of elimination, I have determined that I will vote for Gerald Ford. Reagan's voodoo economics won't work; Anderson won't win, and John Connally won't either. So I urge every Republican to vote for Gerald Ford and give him another chance - you won't regret it."
KENNEDY LANDSLIDE, FORD UPSET; BUSH ENTHUSIASTICALLY ENDORSES FORD
"God, don't let me repeat '76."
Connecticut Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 25 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 39%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 35%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 25%
Gov. John Connally - 11%
Connecticut Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 25 1980
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 52%
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 40%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 8%
- Former President Gerald Ford at a rally in Wisconsin, Mar. 31 1980
Kansas Democratic Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 43.2%
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 42.4%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 14.4%
Wisconsin Democratic Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 60%
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 35%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 5%
Kansas Republican Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Former Vice President Gerald Ford - 39%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 37%
Rep. John Anderson - 13%
Gov. John Connally - 11%
Wisconsin Republican Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Former Vice President Gerald Ford - 35%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 33%
Rep. John Anderson - 32%
"I think Governor Connally lost interest in the presidency in early April. At every meeting, he looked tired, and he seemed very defeatist in his attitude. Of course, his polling wasn't doing well, and by then, there was no way that he could win the nomination - I think he realized it was going to be either Reagan or Ford, and no one else. I brought it up to him once. 'Governor,' I asked, 'Are you sure you want to drag this out?'
And for the first time in a long, long time, he grinned. 'Yessir,' he said. 'I'm stayin' in the race. And keep in mind that I've got a reason.'
That's when I knew he was up to something - and as it turned out, I guess I was right."
Governor John B. Connally (R-TX)
BENTSEN TO WITHDRAW, ENDORSES KENNEDY
Senator Edward Moore Kennedy, Presumptive Democratic Nominee for President of the United States
EDWARD KENNEDY WON ALL FURTHER DEMOCRATIC PRIMARIES
April 2 1980
New Orleans, Louisiana
Senator Edward M. Kennedy - now the Democratic presumptive nominee - stood before a huge crowd, gathered for a campaign rally.
"Some of you may know this, and some of you may not yet," Senator Kennedy began. "I would like to announce that, two hours ago, Senator Bentsen announced that he was withdrawing from the race, and he has endorsed my candidacy. With his delegates now pledged to myself, I am now the Democratic nominee for President."
There was a mix of cheers and boos, coming from Kennedy voters and Bentsen voters alike.
"Now, now," Senator Kennedy said, motioning for the crowd to quiet. "I would like to thank Senator Bentsen for all he has done. In the end, primaries are healthy for the party - it brings a sense of realism to those who want their dreams to come alive."
Applause.
"Now, I'd like to comment on the race for the Republican nomination," he continued. "It's been a very tough race down there. Their nominee could be Gerald Ford, and it could be Ronald Reagan. I know that journalists out there have said numerous times that I should be afraid of Reagan, that if the Grand Old Party nominates him, I will be defeated in November 1980. But that's not the case. I'm not afraid of Gerald Ford. I'm not afraid of Ronald Reagan. I'll face either of them in November 1980 without fear, as I am sure that the American people has the capability to decide between what's healthy and what's harmful for this nation."
The crowd applauded once more.
Q: Who did you support in 1980?
A: I suppose I've always been a life-long moderate, but of course, I didn't realize this until after the election. During the primaries, I supported Kennedy...
Q: Even though he was liberal?
A: I didn't really know much about politics at the time - I mean, I was aware of what was going on in general. But I definitely wasn't an expert. As to why I supported Ted Kennedy, it was probably because I remembered when Jack Kennedy was assassinated. I was 14 at the time, in high school. We got let out of school that day, I remember, and I was really sad. My parents were big JFK fans, so I was too. That was why I voted for Kennedy in 1980.
Q: What did you think about the Republican primaries?
A: It interested me a little - it was a little mind-blowing, you know, to see a former president running for president again. Also, just because the race, all the way through, was so close. It really could have gone either way.
Q: Did you prefer Ford over Reagan?
A: Actually, no. I didn't know much about politics, like I said - I didn't know how much of a conservative he was. If I'd known their political ideologies, I probably would have preferred Ford. But Reagan was more charismatic, and that's why I liked Reagan better than Ford. But I was still going to vote for Kennedy-Bentsen, regardless of who came out on top.
- Chicago Mayor Jane Byrne (D) endorsement of Senator Edward Kennedy, April 13 1980
BUSH TO WITHDRAW PENDING RESULTS OF ILLINOIS PRIMARY
Amarillo, TX - News has come from the Bush for President headquarters in Amarillo that Republican presidential candidate and CIA Director George Bush will withdraw from the presidential race depending on the results of the upcoming Illinois primary. "Mr. Bush doesn't believe in a protracted campaign that will only waste money and valuable time," his spokesman said at the Bush HQ in Amarillo. "And so, if he does not win the Illinois primary, he will withdraw from the race and endorse another candidate. He would like me to inform that you all that, yes, that candidate will be in the Republican Party, and is currently running." According to the polls, Mr. Bush is not expected to win Illinois or even third place.
Illinois Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 18 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 25%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 22%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 22%
George Bush - 16%
Gov. John Connally - 15%
Illinois Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 18 1980
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 62%
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 24%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 14%S
"My fellow Americans," George Bush said to the crowd at his defeat rally. "I just heard that Mr. Ford has won Illinois. I congratulate the former president on his victory. But for now, I'm going to talk about what we've done.
"We started out well. We won Iowa, and then we won Puerto Rico. For a long time, everything looked good for our campaign. But since then, we've been on the retreat, and America's opinion of that showed during the primaries. Well, I won't stay in the race; America doesn't want George Bush in 1980. We did our darndest to win, but there comes a time when every good, qualified candidate must admit defeat. I apologize for all those in the future primaries that were going to vote for me; now, you must find a different candidate. But Texas hasn't voted yet, so neither have I. Who am I going to vote for? Through the process of elimination, I have determined that I will vote for Gerald Ford. Reagan's voodoo economics won't work; Anderson won't win, and John Connally won't either. So I urge every Republican to vote for Gerald Ford and give him another chance - you won't regret it."
KENNEDY LANDSLIDE, FORD UPSET; BUSH ENTHUSIASTICALLY ENDORSES FORD
- The Chicago Tribune Headline, Mar. 19 1980
"God, don't let me repeat '76."
- Alleged quote of Gov. Ronald Reagan, Mar. 18 1980
Connecticut Republican Presidential Primary, Mar. 25 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 39%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 35%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 25%
Gov. John Connally - 11%
Connecticut Democratic Presidential Primary, Mar. 25 1980
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 52%
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 40%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 8%
"I'm concerned about Governor Reagan and his economic policies. George Bush called them voodoo economics; I call it a fantasy."
- Former President Gerald Ford at a rally in Wisconsin, Mar. 31 1980
Kansas Democratic Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 43.2%
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 42.4%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 14.4%
Wisconsin Democratic Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Sen. Edward Kennedy - 60%
Sen. Lloyd Bentsen - 35%
Gov. Cliff Finch - 5%
Kansas Republican Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Former Vice President Gerald Ford - 39%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 37%
Rep. John Anderson - 13%
Gov. John Connally - 11%
Wisconsin Republican Presidential Primary, April 1 1980
Former Vice President Gerald Ford - 35%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 33%
Rep. John Anderson - 32%
"I think Governor Connally lost interest in the presidency in early April. At every meeting, he looked tired, and he seemed very defeatist in his attitude. Of course, his polling wasn't doing well, and by then, there was no way that he could win the nomination - I think he realized it was going to be either Reagan or Ford, and no one else. I brought it up to him once. 'Governor,' I asked, 'Are you sure you want to drag this out?'
And for the first time in a long, long time, he grinned. 'Yessir,' he said. 'I'm stayin' in the race. And keep in mind that I've got a reason.'
That's when I knew he was up to something - and as it turned out, I guess I was right."
- Anonymous Anderson for President campaign worker interviewed for 1980: The Making of a President John White, 1981
Governor John B. Connally (R-TX)
BENTSEN TO WITHDRAW, ENDORSES KENNEDY
- The New York Times, April 2 1980
Senator Edward Moore Kennedy, Presumptive Democratic Nominee for President of the United States
EDWARD KENNEDY WON ALL FURTHER DEMOCRATIC PRIMARIES
April 2 1980
New Orleans, Louisiana
Senator Edward M. Kennedy - now the Democratic presumptive nominee - stood before a huge crowd, gathered for a campaign rally.
"Some of you may know this, and some of you may not yet," Senator Kennedy began. "I would like to announce that, two hours ago, Senator Bentsen announced that he was withdrawing from the race, and he has endorsed my candidacy. With his delegates now pledged to myself, I am now the Democratic nominee for President."
There was a mix of cheers and boos, coming from Kennedy voters and Bentsen voters alike.
"Now, now," Senator Kennedy said, motioning for the crowd to quiet. "I would like to thank Senator Bentsen for all he has done. In the end, primaries are healthy for the party - it brings a sense of realism to those who want their dreams to come alive."
Applause.
"Now, I'd like to comment on the race for the Republican nomination," he continued. "It's been a very tough race down there. Their nominee could be Gerald Ford, and it could be Ronald Reagan. I know that journalists out there have said numerous times that I should be afraid of Reagan, that if the Grand Old Party nominates him, I will be defeated in November 1980. But that's not the case. I'm not afraid of Gerald Ford. I'm not afraid of Ronald Reagan. I'll face either of them in November 1980 without fear, as I am sure that the American people has the capability to decide between what's healthy and what's harmful for this nation."
The crowd applauded once more.
Q: Who did you support in 1980?
A: I suppose I've always been a life-long moderate, but of course, I didn't realize this until after the election. During the primaries, I supported Kennedy...
Q: Even though he was liberal?
A: I didn't really know much about politics at the time - I mean, I was aware of what was going on in general. But I definitely wasn't an expert. As to why I supported Ted Kennedy, it was probably because I remembered when Jack Kennedy was assassinated. I was 14 at the time, in high school. We got let out of school that day, I remember, and I was really sad. My parents were big JFK fans, so I was too. That was why I voted for Kennedy in 1980.
Q: What did you think about the Republican primaries?
A: It interested me a little - it was a little mind-blowing, you know, to see a former president running for president again. Also, just because the race, all the way through, was so close. It really could have gone either way.
Q: Did you prefer Ford over Reagan?
A: Actually, no. I didn't know much about politics, like I said - I didn't know how much of a conservative he was. If I'd known their political ideologies, I probably would have preferred Ford. But Reagan was more charismatic, and that's why I liked Reagan better than Ford. But I was still going to vote for Kennedy-Bentsen, regardless of who came out on top.
- From The Washington Post interview with Harry Turtledove, Jan. 4 1992
- 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
"I think Governor Connally's remarks were inappropriate. He and I have always gotten along, so I feel very surprised at his burst of anger this morning. Still, I think he is acting very immature, like a spoiled child who didn't get what he wanted for Christmas."
- Gov. Ronald Reagan (R-CA) at a press conference, May 4 1980
- Reagan for President campaign manager John Sears, interviewed for 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
Maryland Republican Presidential Primary, May 13 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 42%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 38%
Rep. John Anderson - 20%
Nebraska Republican Presidential Primary, May 13 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 42.5%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 41.7%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 15.8%
- The Washington Post, May 14 1980
- Quote attributed to Reagan campaign manager John Sears, May 15 1980
- 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
"Governor," Gerald Ford said to Reagan as he closed the door to his private office, ''Long time, no see. We've been having quite the primary fight, haven't we?"
"We have, Mr. Ford," Reagan said icily.
"It's a shame," the former president said as he walked over to the windows. "Back in '76, I thought it would be nice to see you on the ticket. I really thought it would be good to have you on as Vice President. It truly would have been a collaboration of ideas. Shame it didn't happen. Instead, we ended up with Carter."
"1976 was four years ago," Reagan replied. "Everything is different now, with Carter in the White House. Neither of us are the incumbent - not anymore. That's why I'm confident that I will win, Gerald."
"I understand," Ford said. "But I would like to point out that I am ahead of you in the delegate race, and we're polling dead even in the May 20th polls. If I win, it could be curtains for you. Could. Governor, I wouldn't be so sure."
"In any event, let the best man win," Reagan said with a fake smile on his face, outstretching his hand towards the president. I hope this ends soon, he thought to himself. "Or at least, the man with the best chance at beating Kennedy."
"We have a lot of differences," Ford told him. "But we have two things alike that I believe are important to understand. First and foremost, we both understand the need to defeat Kennedy - he cannot become president."
"Agreed," Reagan replied, unsure of where the conversation was going.
"Two," Ford continued with a grin, "We want our policies to take effect - neither of us will be do-nothing presidents."
There was a brief silence, until Ford broke it. "What if I told you," Ford said slowly, "that we could both work together to defeat Kennedy, and get done exactly what this nation needs?"
Reagan's jaw almost dropped. That's what he wants, he thought to himself. He's not getting it - period. "Mr. President, if you are asking me to be your running mate, I decline. I will not just give up on a race that I can win."
"I'll give you many benefits," Ford told him with an almost-genuine-looking smile on his face. "I'll give you control over half the Cabinet, maybe more, and we can initiate several of your policies along with mine. We would be a presidential duo that America has never seen before!"
"The answer is still no," Governor Reagan told him flatly. "Now, I don't believe we have much more to discuss. Good day, Mr. President," he told him as he left the office.
- Anonymous novelization of the Reagan-Ford meeting on May 17, 1980
Michigan Republican Presidential Primary, May 20 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 71%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 29%
Oregon Republican Presidential Primary, May 20 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 35%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 34%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 31%
Louisiana Republican Presidential Primary, April 5 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 60%
Former President Gerald Ford - 36%
Governor John Connally - 4%
Pennsylvania Republican Presidential Primary, April 22 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 41%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 32%
Rep. John Anderson - 21%
Gov. John Connally - 6%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 60%
Former President Gerald Ford - 36%
Governor John Connally - 4%
Pennsylvania Republican Presidential Primary, April 22 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 41%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 32%
Rep. John Anderson - 21%
Gov. John Connally - 6%
The New York Times, April 25 1980
MILITARY ATTEMPTS RESCUE OF TEHRAN HOSTAGES MEETS FAILURE
US-IRAN RELATIONS DETERIORATE
MILITARY ATTEMPTS RESCUE OF TEHRAN HOSTAGES MEETS FAILURE
US-IRAN RELATIONS DETERIORATE
"A big step for the Reagan campaign was in Texas. Of course, Governor Connally was favored to win, despite losing every primary by pathetic margins, for the large state was his home state. It was apparent to Governor Reagan that, if he could win Texas, he could prove that he had momentum, which would carry him past Ford to the nomination."
- 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
"... I learned of John's plan later that week. See, he wanted to be the decider at the RNC. He was almost correct when he told me that Ford and Reagan were going to fight for the win at the convention, that the rest of the primaries were going to be split evenly - with Texas as the decider. If John Connally could win the Texas delegation, he could set himself up for complete control of the Texas delegation, which could decide the nomination on a hypothetical second ballot.
Reagan really gave us a fight for Texas, though. He was constantly campaigning across the state, and he was even more charismatic than usual. Of course, John didn't expect to have to campaign as much as he did, and he let his pride get him - he refused to do the necessary campaigning. 'This is my state, dammit!' He would scream at me, and I remember that vividly. 'This is my state, and I'm gonna win my state! They elected me as their governor...' and on an on. I think that's why he lost Texas, and his hopes of being crowned Kingmaker."
Reagan really gave us a fight for Texas, though. He was constantly campaigning across the state, and he was even more charismatic than usual. Of course, John didn't expect to have to campaign as much as he did, and he let his pride get him - he refused to do the necessary campaigning. 'This is my state, dammit!' He would scream at me, and I remember that vividly. 'This is my state, and I'm gonna win my state! They elected me as their governor...' and on an on. I think that's why he lost Texas, and his hopes of being crowned Kingmaker."
- Anonymous Connally for President campaign worker interviewed for 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
Texas Republican Presidential Primary, May 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 29%
Gov. John Connally - 26%
Former President Gerald Ford - 23%
Governor Bill Clements (write-in) - 10%
Director George Bush (write-in) - 7%
Rep. John Anderson - 5%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 29%
Gov. John Connally - 26%
Former President Gerald Ford - 23%
Governor Bill Clements (write-in) - 10%
Director George Bush (write-in) - 7%
Rep. John Anderson - 5%
"After he lost Texas, he just erupted. He went crazy, and that went to show at his press conference the next day - the one that's become so infamous. It's weird; he and Reagan had gotten along so well for so long. And then, with this defeat, he just got really bitter towards him, and he hated his guts. Unfortunately, their relationship was never restored, and after that press conference, I can't blame either of them for not trying to restore it."
- Anonymous Connally for President campaign worker interviewed for 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
Famous John Connally Press Conference
Houston, TX, 9:00 A.M., May 4 1980
JOHN CONNALLY: Good morning, y'all. I'd just like to tell y'all that I'm leaving the presidential race - no further comment. Obviously, Texas don't want me anymore, so I think it's obvious America don't want me. I'll take questions.
REPORTER #1: Who are you endorsing?
CONNALLY: I have no idea, but it sure as hell won't be that SOB Ronald Reagan!
REPORTER #2: Governor, do you have any hard feelings towards Governor Reagan?
CONNALLY: Yes I do - I think he's a lying SOB with fake charisma. I think he's a robber.
Houston, TX, 9:00 A.M., May 4 1980
JOHN CONNALLY: Good morning, y'all. I'd just like to tell y'all that I'm leaving the presidential race - no further comment. Obviously, Texas don't want me anymore, so I think it's obvious America don't want me. I'll take questions.
REPORTER #1: Who are you endorsing?
CONNALLY: I have no idea, but it sure as hell won't be that SOB Ronald Reagan!
REPORTER #2: Governor, do you have any hard feelings towards Governor Reagan?
CONNALLY: Yes I do - I think he's a lying SOB with fake charisma. I think he's a robber.
"I think Governor Connally's remarks were inappropriate. He and I have always gotten along, so I feel very surprised at his burst of anger this morning. Still, I think he is acting very immature, like a spoiled child who didn't get what he wanted for Christmas."
- Gov. Ronald Reagan (R-CA) at a press conference, May 4 1980
The New York Times, May 5 1980
KENNEDY ANNOUNCES RUNNING MATE: LLOYD BENTSEN JOINS DEM TICKET
Huntsville, TX - Standing before a crowd in front of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, shook hands with Sen. Lloyd Bentsen after announcing that Bentsen would be his choice for Vice President. "I believe Senator Bentsen is an opportunity for all Democrats to unite for a common cause, and that he will make an excellent Vice President," Kennedy said at the rally. Bentsen encouraged moderate voters to support Kennedy, saying, "1980 will be the year of unity, and Ted Kennedy is the candidate of unity ... they are a perfect match." Currently, general election polls are showing Kennedy slightly ahead of former President Gerald Ford and tied with Governor Ronald Reagan.
KENNEDY ANNOUNCES RUNNING MATE: LLOYD BENTSEN JOINS DEM TICKET
Huntsville, TX - Standing before a crowd in front of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, shook hands with Sen. Lloyd Bentsen after announcing that Bentsen would be his choice for Vice President. "I believe Senator Bentsen is an opportunity for all Democrats to unite for a common cause, and that he will make an excellent Vice President," Kennedy said at the rally. Bentsen encouraged moderate voters to support Kennedy, saying, "1980 will be the year of unity, and Ted Kennedy is the candidate of unity ... they are a perfect match." Currently, general election polls are showing Kennedy slightly ahead of former President Gerald Ford and tied with Governor Ronald Reagan.
Washington, D.C. Republican Presidential Primary, May 6 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 90%
Congressman John Anderson - 10%
Indiana Republican Presidential Primary, May 6 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 48.3%
Former President Gerald Ford - 47.9%
Rep. John Anderson - 3.8%
North Carolina Republican Presidential Primary, May 6 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 70%
Former President Gerald Ford - 30%
Tennessee Republican Presidential Primary, May 6 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 66%
Former President Gerald Ford - 34%
"I told Ron that our recent victories were good; Texas had given us a huge boost, and even though it was expected, our landslides in North Carolina and Tennessee were also big boosters. 'Now we just have to win the next five primaries, and we'll have enough momentum to win the nomination.' Now, Ron spent so much time, so much money running ads in those states, and campaigning in a few of them. Unfortunately, the turnout on the 13th was wacky, and that's what cost us."
Former President Gerald Ford - 90%
Congressman John Anderson - 10%
Indiana Republican Presidential Primary, May 6 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 48.3%
Former President Gerald Ford - 47.9%
Rep. John Anderson - 3.8%
North Carolina Republican Presidential Primary, May 6 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 70%
Former President Gerald Ford - 30%
Tennessee Republican Presidential Primary, May 6 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 66%
Former President Gerald Ford - 34%
"I told Ron that our recent victories were good; Texas had given us a huge boost, and even though it was expected, our landslides in North Carolina and Tennessee were also big boosters. 'Now we just have to win the next five primaries, and we'll have enough momentum to win the nomination.' Now, Ron spent so much time, so much money running ads in those states, and campaigning in a few of them. Unfortunately, the turnout on the 13th was wacky, and that's what cost us."
- Reagan for President campaign manager John Sears, interviewed for 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
Maryland Republican Presidential Primary, May 13 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 42%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 38%
Rep. John Anderson - 20%
Nebraska Republican Presidential Primary, May 13 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 42.5%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 41.7%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 15.8%
FORD UPSETS REAGAN IN MARYLAND, NEBRASKA, AHEAD OF REAGAN IN DELEGATE COUNT
- The Washington Post, May 14 1980
"The fate of our campaign relies on May 20. We either win now, or concede to Ford."
- Quote attributed to Reagan campaign manager John Sears, May 15 1980
"It was on May 16, 1980, that Sears would receive an important phone call. Gerald Ford had called the campaign office for the first time, and asked to talk to Reagan himself. Fortunately, the Governor was available, and the call was redirected to Reagan's private office. The call was 'icy,' as Reagan would later describe; there seemed to be 'no emotion' in Ford's voice as he asked his opponent if they could meet in private. It was arranged that Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford - two enemies - would meet privately in Ford's private hotel room in Salem, Oregon. And it was this conversation that decided the fate of the Republican presidential nomination."
- 1980: The Making of a President, John White, 1981
"Governor," Gerald Ford said to Reagan as he closed the door to his private office, ''Long time, no see. We've been having quite the primary fight, haven't we?"
"We have, Mr. Ford," Reagan said icily.
"It's a shame," the former president said as he walked over to the windows. "Back in '76, I thought it would be nice to see you on the ticket. I really thought it would be good to have you on as Vice President. It truly would have been a collaboration of ideas. Shame it didn't happen. Instead, we ended up with Carter."
"1976 was four years ago," Reagan replied. "Everything is different now, with Carter in the White House. Neither of us are the incumbent - not anymore. That's why I'm confident that I will win, Gerald."
"I understand," Ford said. "But I would like to point out that I am ahead of you in the delegate race, and we're polling dead even in the May 20th polls. If I win, it could be curtains for you. Could. Governor, I wouldn't be so sure."
"In any event, let the best man win," Reagan said with a fake smile on his face, outstretching his hand towards the president. I hope this ends soon, he thought to himself. "Or at least, the man with the best chance at beating Kennedy."
"We have a lot of differences," Ford told him. "But we have two things alike that I believe are important to understand. First and foremost, we both understand the need to defeat Kennedy - he cannot become president."
"Agreed," Reagan replied, unsure of where the conversation was going.
"Two," Ford continued with a grin, "We want our policies to take effect - neither of us will be do-nothing presidents."
There was a brief silence, until Ford broke it. "What if I told you," Ford said slowly, "that we could both work together to defeat Kennedy, and get done exactly what this nation needs?"
Reagan's jaw almost dropped. That's what he wants, he thought to himself. He's not getting it - period. "Mr. President, if you are asking me to be your running mate, I decline. I will not just give up on a race that I can win."
"I'll give you many benefits," Ford told him with an almost-genuine-looking smile on his face. "I'll give you control over half the Cabinet, maybe more, and we can initiate several of your policies along with mine. We would be a presidential duo that America has never seen before!"
"The answer is still no," Governor Reagan told him flatly. "Now, I don't believe we have much more to discuss. Good day, Mr. President," he told him as he left the office.
- Anonymous novelization of the Reagan-Ford meeting on May 17, 1980
Michigan Republican Presidential Primary, May 20 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 71%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 29%
Oregon Republican Presidential Primary, May 20 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 35%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 34%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 31%
FORD TAKES MICHIGAN, OREGON, CONNALLY ENDORSES FORD; REAGAN VOWS TO 'STAY IN RACE'
- The New York Times, May 21 1980
The New York Times May 22 1980
WALLACE DECLARES SURPRISE SENATE CANDIDACY
Montgomery, Alabama - Former Governor George Wallace today declares his surprise candidacy for a seat in the United States Senate, where the Democrats are facing a tight primary between incumbent Senator Donald Stewart and challenger Jim Folsom. "My state and my country is in peril," Governor Wallace said at his announcement conference today. "My state's Democrats are divided over a Senate seat; the Republicans are bitterly divided between Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford; and my nation as a whole is divided between the dangerous liberalism of Ted Kennedy and the Republican Party. And that is why I am running as a compromise candidate in the Democratic primary for the Senate, and as a candidate for the health and safety of America and Alabama."
"Everything depended on June 3 now. Nine states were holding their primaries that day, including the Governor's home state. By then, all hopes of clinching the nomination on the first ballot were gone. We just had to make a second ballot victory as likely as possible, and the key to that was through a decisive victory in the June 3 primaries."
- Reagan Campaign Manager John Sears interviewed for Rolling Stone, May 1981
- Gov. Ronald Reagan (R-CA) campaigning in New Jersey, June 1 1980
REPUBLICANS HEAD INTO CONVENTION DEADLOCKED, NO CLEAR NOMINEE; RUMORS FLOATED ABOUT 'SHOTGUN WEDDING' BY GOP OFFICIALS
- The Washington Post, June 4 1980
- Reagan Campaign Manager John Sears interviewed for TIME Magazine, July 2004
Former President Gerald Ford (R-MI), Presumptive Republican Presidential Nominee
WALLACE DECLARES SURPRISE SENATE CANDIDACY
Montgomery, Alabama - Former Governor George Wallace today declares his surprise candidacy for a seat in the United States Senate, where the Democrats are facing a tight primary between incumbent Senator Donald Stewart and challenger Jim Folsom. "My state and my country is in peril," Governor Wallace said at his announcement conference today. "My state's Democrats are divided over a Senate seat; the Republicans are bitterly divided between Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford; and my nation as a whole is divided between the dangerous liberalism of Ted Kennedy and the Republican Party. And that is why I am running as a compromise candidate in the Democratic primary for the Senate, and as a candidate for the health and safety of America and Alabama."
Arkansas Republican Presidential Primary, May 27 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 59%
Former President Gerald Ford - 41%
Idaho Republican Presidential Primary, May 27 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 58%
Former President Gerald Ford - 42%
Kentucky Republican Presidential Primary, May 27 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 56%
Former President Gerald Ford - 44%
Nevada Republican Presidential Primary, May 27 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 60%
Former President Gerald Ford - 40%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 59%
Former President Gerald Ford - 41%
Idaho Republican Presidential Primary, May 27 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 58%
Former President Gerald Ford - 42%
Kentucky Republican Presidential Primary, May 27 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 56%
Former President Gerald Ford - 44%
Nevada Republican Presidential Primary, May 27 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 60%
Former President Gerald Ford - 40%
"Everything depended on June 3 now. Nine states were holding their primaries that day, including the Governor's home state. By then, all hopes of clinching the nomination on the first ballot were gone. We just had to make a second ballot victory as likely as possible, and the key to that was through a decisive victory in the June 3 primaries."
- Reagan Campaign Manager John Sears interviewed for Rolling Stone, May 1981
"Let us not follow in the old footsteps of the failed policies of the New Deal, the proposed policies of Edward Kennedy. Instead, let us go with a policy of morning for America."
- Gov. Ronald Reagan (R-CA) campaigning in New Jersey, June 1 1980
California Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan (native) - 75%
Former President Gerald Ford - 20%
Rep. John Anderson - 5%
Mississippi Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 81%
Former President Gerald Ford - 19%
Montana Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 60%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 35%
Rep. John Anderson - 5%
New Jersey Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 54%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 46%
New Mexico Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 57%
Former President Gerald Ford - 43%
Ohio Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 50.7%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 48%
Rhode Island Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 76%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 18%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 6%
South Dakota Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 88%
Former President Gerald Ford - 12%
West Virginia Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 80%
Former President Gerald Ford - 20%
Gov. Ronald Reagan (native) - 75%
Former President Gerald Ford - 20%
Rep. John Anderson - 5%
Mississippi Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 81%
Former President Gerald Ford - 19%
Montana Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 60%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 35%
Rep. John Anderson - 5%
New Jersey Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 54%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 46%
New Mexico Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 57%
Former President Gerald Ford - 43%
Ohio Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 50.7%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 48%
Rhode Island Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Former President Gerald Ford - 76%
Rep. John B. Anderson - 18%
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 6%
South Dakota Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 88%
Former President Gerald Ford - 12%
West Virginia Republican Presidential Primary, June 3 1980
Gov. Ronald Reagan - 80%
Former President Gerald Ford - 20%
REPUBLICANS HEAD INTO CONVENTION DEADLOCKED, NO CLEAR NOMINEE; RUMORS FLOATED ABOUT 'SHOTGUN WEDDING' BY GOP OFFICIALS
- The Washington Post, June 4 1980
"The Governor got very depressed just after the last primaries. The news articles were screaming about a repeat of 1976, and how the Republican nomination mattered no longer - Kennedy was going to win, they said. Of course, Ford was off doing his own thing, campaigning across the country like he'd been doing, trying to gather enough support to win the nomination at the convention. But the day after the last nine primaries, Ron told me, 'I'm going to stay home, John. I need time to think things through.'
"So that's what he did. He returned to his ranch in California. I remember the press; God, they just wouldn't get over it. I had to tell them that Ron was staying home, and I told them he was exhausted, which he was. But they kept asking, 'What's wrong with Ron?' 'Why's he staying home?' That was when, I think, Reagan's presidential candidacy in 1980 was doomed.
"After he died in '93, I talked with Nancy Reagan a lot. She told me that, while he was staying home, he talked to her about the race. He mentioned withdrawing more than a few times, and he ranted about Gerald Ford more than a few times. Ironically, they just didn't get along well. And at the end of those rants, Nancy told me, the Governor would tell her that he was going to fight tooth-and-nail at the convention, and he was determined to beat Gerald Ford. But at the end of June, he stopped ranting. And the day before he went back into politics, he told Nancy, and I'll never forget the exact words Nancy told me: 'It's over. I won't be president. But maybe that's a good thing.'
"The next day, while I was relaxing at my own house, I heard that Reagan was making a surprise press conference. I watched it. I saw my own candidate - the candidate I believed was going to be the next President of the United States - coolly and calmly announce his withdrawal and endorsement of Gerald Ford. I could see it in his eyes - how he hated to be endorsing Ford again.
"I called him up that same day, and he told me that he was ending the campaign. He thanked me for everything I had done for the campaign, and he told me that his retirement was permanent.
"The Reagan for President campaign was finally over."
"So that's what he did. He returned to his ranch in California. I remember the press; God, they just wouldn't get over it. I had to tell them that Ron was staying home, and I told them he was exhausted, which he was. But they kept asking, 'What's wrong with Ron?' 'Why's he staying home?' That was when, I think, Reagan's presidential candidacy in 1980 was doomed.
"After he died in '93, I talked with Nancy Reagan a lot. She told me that, while he was staying home, he talked to her about the race. He mentioned withdrawing more than a few times, and he ranted about Gerald Ford more than a few times. Ironically, they just didn't get along well. And at the end of those rants, Nancy told me, the Governor would tell her that he was going to fight tooth-and-nail at the convention, and he was determined to beat Gerald Ford. But at the end of June, he stopped ranting. And the day before he went back into politics, he told Nancy, and I'll never forget the exact words Nancy told me: 'It's over. I won't be president. But maybe that's a good thing.'
"The next day, while I was relaxing at my own house, I heard that Reagan was making a surprise press conference. I watched it. I saw my own candidate - the candidate I believed was going to be the next President of the United States - coolly and calmly announce his withdrawal and endorsement of Gerald Ford. I could see it in his eyes - how he hated to be endorsing Ford again.
"I called him up that same day, and he told me that he was ending the campaign. He thanked me for everything I had done for the campaign, and he told me that his retirement was permanent.
"The Reagan for President campaign was finally over."
- Reagan Campaign Manager John Sears interviewed for TIME Magazine, July 2004
The Los Angeles Times June 30 1980
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REAGAN ENDORSES FORD
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REAGAN ENDORSES FORD
Former President Gerald Ford (R-MI), Presumptive Republican Presidential Nominee
"George Wallace's decision to run for Senate wasn't as sudden as most people think it was. In reality, he'd been planning it for a few months; he saw this year as the perfect year to go into the Senate. He'd already formed a committee and a campaign staff - made up mostly of the campaign workers who had worked on his campaigns for governor - and his campaign really was in full gear by the time he announced his actual candidacy. That was why he afforded to make his next stunt move so suddenly."
- Former Sen. George McGovern on George Wallace, 1983
"The Democratic primary will be unquestionably close, and regardless of the victor, I believe the result will be the same: A Republican victory in Alabama. I know what the state of Alabama needs, and it isn't a contested primary. Because I want to give Alabama a clear choice when it elects a new senator, I'm leaving the primary. That's right, folks - I'm forming a new party!"
- George Wallace at a press conference, July 1 1980
The Birmingham News July 2 1980
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WALLACE FORMS INDEPENDENT CAMPAIGN, "WALLACE FOR ALABAMA" PARTY
The Birmingham News July 2 1980
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WALLACE FORMS INDEPENDENT CAMPAIGN, "WALLACE FOR ALABAMA" PARTY
The Birmingham News - Editor's Opinion
June 30 1980
PREDICTIONS FOR AL SEN. ELECTION
The 1980 Senate election in Alabama has gained nationwide fame since the entrance of former Governor and four-time presidential candidate George Wallace into the Democratic primary, and even more since his departure from it. The Senate election in Alabama has now turned into a three-way race between independent George Wallace, the Democrats, and the Republicans - and polling has them dead even. And the question of whether George Wallace can win depends on his opponents.
The Democratic primary is now back to its former structure of one incumbent - Senator Donald Stewart - and only one challenger - Jim Folsom, Jr., son of Governor Jim Folsom, Sr. Currently, using his grassroots campaigning and Alabama political roots, Folsom has been leading Senator Stewart in most opinion polls, though it is possible for the incumbent to survive the challenge in an upset. And in the Republican primary, Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton (USN, Ret.) is unopposed and guaranteed the Republican senatorial nomination.
If Senator Stewart should win an upset victory in the primary, the race will likely be fought between Wallace and Denton. If there is one thing that is clear in this election, it is that Alabama will not re-elect Senator Donald Stewart. From there, it would be too close to call, but being a legend of Alabama politics, Wallace is slightly favored to win in that situation.
If Folsom should win the primary, then it truly will be a three-way contest - after all, he is the son of a popular governor. From there, it is impossible to say who will win - it depends on Alabama's mood in November 1980.
In any event, Alabama's Senate election will be the most interesting we have seen in a while.
The Republican National Convention, July 14-17 1980
"There was quite a bit of commodity occuring in the Joe Louis Arena during the balloting. Everyone was tense. As the delegates had started arriving, there were several arguments that started between Ford and Reagan delegates for several different reasons. And of course, no one was sure that Ford was the right way to go in 1980. Being a former Reagan delegate, I of course was sure that Ford was going to lose to Kennedy. Reagan had charisma, while Ford didn't.
In any event, when Bill Brock announced Ford's nomination, there wasn't as much cheering for Ford as there would have been if Reagan was nominated - again, it was the doubt that came from half of us.
Then it was time for the vice presidential selection.
Now, no one knew who Ford was gonna select. Realistically, we figured, he was going to choose a moderate and keep to his base. Someone who had been a great asset to his presidency. That was the opposite of our hopeful - Ronald Reagan.
Like every other time a candidate is nominated, the new Republican presidential nominee stepped onto the stage with Betty Ford, waving to us. It was time for his selection. The applause ended early, and the arena became tense once again. Gerald Ford stepped up the stadium, and he said, "Delegates to the Republican National Convention, and Chairman Brock, I thank you for nominating me as your candidate for the presidency in November 1980. I suggest to the delegates for the vice - "
And then came the most historic moment of the 1980s. This is what caused everything that happened.
"Reagan!" A group of delegates from California shouted.
What Ford should have done was kept on going, and announce his running mate. But he stopped. They shouted again, and this time, there were others from other delegations that shouted Reagan's name. Then more. And during the fifth chant, I was among the delegates chanting Ronald Reagan's name.
Twenty seconds after Gerald Ford was supposed to announce his running mate, more than half of the convention was shouting for Reagan.
Twenty more seconds later, Ford tapped the microphone. He had a look on his face that showed he was a mix of being impressed and horrified. Now, I don't know everything that there is to know about the human mind, but something connected in Ford's. Something showed him that he was going to lose if he didn't put Ronald Reagan on the ticket.
Sounding weaker than before, Gerald Ford said to the convention, "I endorse Governor Ronald Reagan for the Vice Presidency of the United States."
That did it. The place erupted in cheering. A lot of us were giving high-fives to each other. We'd done it. We had just made an extraordinary mark on the 1980 presidential election.
At 10:05 in the morning on July 14, 1980, the Republican National Convention nominated Ronald Reagan for the vice presidential nomination. Two hours later, a very shocked Reagan arrived, showed up on the stage with Gerald Ford - his two-time opponent - and announced his acceptance of the nomination. For the next two months, the words Ford/Reagan tasted so strange to say.
Later on - I think it was about three years later - we heard that Gerald Ford was originally going to choose Charles Mathias as his running mate. Just think about that. If that one group of delegates hadn't decided to interrupt Gerald Ford, we would have ended up with President Charles Mathias. President Mathias! Ha!
Speaking of the moderates... The Anderson delegates really put on a show afterwards..."
"After the balloting, the Anderson delegates - including the Anderson-dominated Vermont delegation - literally walked out of the convention. It was quite a scene as every delegate, including Ford and Reagan, and everyone watching the event on TV watched them walk out the front door. After the last one left, Brock announced that Congressman Gingrich of Georgia would give his speech, and the convention went on. Still, Anderson left his mark."
- House Minority Leader Bob Michel on the RNC
"It is my great honor tonight to inform the world that I am running for the presidency of the United States as an Independent."
- Anonymous Alabama citizen on the 1980 Alabama Senate Election
Alabama Republican Senatorial Primary, August 1 1980
Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton (USN, Ret.) - 95%
Other - 5%
Alabama Democratic Senatorial Primary, August 1 1980
Sen. Donald Stewart - 51.3%
Jim Folsom Jr. - 48.7%
STEWART SURVIVES PRIMARY, TO FACE DENTON (R) AND WALLACE (I) IN NOV.
"I declare that Senator Edward Moore Kennedy of Massachusetts, brother of the great President John Fitzgerald Kennedy and the late Senator Robert Francis Kennedy of New York, has been nominated by this convention for President of the United States." Chairman John C. White watched as Senator Kennedy entered the stage to give his recommendation for the vice presidency.
"Thank you, thank you," a visibly beaming Kennedy boomed to the convention. "It is my privilege to endorse Senator Lloyd M. Bentsen for the Democratic vice presidential nomination!"
"This convention shall vote on a vice presidential nominee by voice vote," Chairman White announced. Very shortly, the voice vote made it clear that Bentsen won the nomination. Senator Bentsen entered the stage.
Later that day, President Jimmy Carter gave his farewell address to the convention. "Many expected me to run," Carter said. "Many expected me to stick through and fight tooth-and-nail to keep the Oval Office. But like any loyal Democrat, I saw that the challenges my office faced and currently faces has been unprecedented, and I saw that it was like no other occasion. And on this occasion, America required me to do my job thoroughly. And that's what Democrats are all about, and I know that's how well Ted Kennedy will do as the 40th President of the United States!"
The next day, Vice President Walter Mondale addressed the convention. "I thank President Carter for all that he has done for the nation and myself over the last four years. I have read about my predecessors to the vice presidency, and I was treated the best of all the vice presidents by our president. And I know that Teddy Kennedy will do the same for Lloyd Bentsen."
It was on the last day of the convention that Senator Kennedy gave his acceptance speech. "There's a long road ahead of us," Kennedy boomed to the convention. "I can only promise that I will try to my utmost ability to win. But in the case that America should reject my promises, keep in mind that the dream is out there. And when the dream is out - when the dream is alive - the dream shall never die."
"I understand that there has been much anxiousness over my running mate. There were a few under consideration, but the one that struck me the most as vice presidential material is the one that I have chosen. He was a candidate for the Democratic nomination, and he has promised to help me do what is considered impossible, and that is to win the two highest offices in the land on an independent ticket. Governor Cliff Finch of Mississippi is my running mate."
June 30 1980
PREDICTIONS FOR AL SEN. ELECTION
The 1980 Senate election in Alabama has gained nationwide fame since the entrance of former Governor and four-time presidential candidate George Wallace into the Democratic primary, and even more since his departure from it. The Senate election in Alabama has now turned into a three-way race between independent George Wallace, the Democrats, and the Republicans - and polling has them dead even. And the question of whether George Wallace can win depends on his opponents.
The Democratic primary is now back to its former structure of one incumbent - Senator Donald Stewart - and only one challenger - Jim Folsom, Jr., son of Governor Jim Folsom, Sr. Currently, using his grassroots campaigning and Alabama political roots, Folsom has been leading Senator Stewart in most opinion polls, though it is possible for the incumbent to survive the challenge in an upset. And in the Republican primary, Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton (USN, Ret.) is unopposed and guaranteed the Republican senatorial nomination.
If Senator Stewart should win an upset victory in the primary, the race will likely be fought between Wallace and Denton. If there is one thing that is clear in this election, it is that Alabama will not re-elect Senator Donald Stewart. From there, it would be too close to call, but being a legend of Alabama politics, Wallace is slightly favored to win in that situation.
If Folsom should win the primary, then it truly will be a three-way contest - after all, he is the son of a popular governor. From there, it is impossible to say who will win - it depends on Alabama's mood in November 1980.
In any event, Alabama's Senate election will be the most interesting we have seen in a while.
The Republican National Convention, July 14-17 1980
"There was quite a bit of commodity occuring in the Joe Louis Arena during the balloting. Everyone was tense. As the delegates had started arriving, there were several arguments that started between Ford and Reagan delegates for several different reasons. And of course, no one was sure that Ford was the right way to go in 1980. Being a former Reagan delegate, I of course was sure that Ford was going to lose to Kennedy. Reagan had charisma, while Ford didn't.
In any event, when Bill Brock announced Ford's nomination, there wasn't as much cheering for Ford as there would have been if Reagan was nominated - again, it was the doubt that came from half of us.
Then it was time for the vice presidential selection.
Now, no one knew who Ford was gonna select. Realistically, we figured, he was going to choose a moderate and keep to his base. Someone who had been a great asset to his presidency. That was the opposite of our hopeful - Ronald Reagan.
Like every other time a candidate is nominated, the new Republican presidential nominee stepped onto the stage with Betty Ford, waving to us. It was time for his selection. The applause ended early, and the arena became tense once again. Gerald Ford stepped up the stadium, and he said, "Delegates to the Republican National Convention, and Chairman Brock, I thank you for nominating me as your candidate for the presidency in November 1980. I suggest to the delegates for the vice - "
And then came the most historic moment of the 1980s. This is what caused everything that happened.
"Reagan!" A group of delegates from California shouted.
What Ford should have done was kept on going, and announce his running mate. But he stopped. They shouted again, and this time, there were others from other delegations that shouted Reagan's name. Then more. And during the fifth chant, I was among the delegates chanting Ronald Reagan's name.
Twenty seconds after Gerald Ford was supposed to announce his running mate, more than half of the convention was shouting for Reagan.
Twenty more seconds later, Ford tapped the microphone. He had a look on his face that showed he was a mix of being impressed and horrified. Now, I don't know everything that there is to know about the human mind, but something connected in Ford's. Something showed him that he was going to lose if he didn't put Ronald Reagan on the ticket.
Sounding weaker than before, Gerald Ford said to the convention, "I endorse Governor Ronald Reagan for the Vice Presidency of the United States."
That did it. The place erupted in cheering. A lot of us were giving high-fives to each other. We'd done it. We had just made an extraordinary mark on the 1980 presidential election.
At 10:05 in the morning on July 14, 1980, the Republican National Convention nominated Ronald Reagan for the vice presidential nomination. Two hours later, a very shocked Reagan arrived, showed up on the stage with Gerald Ford - his two-time opponent - and announced his acceptance of the nomination. For the next two months, the words Ford/Reagan tasted so strange to say.
Later on - I think it was about three years later - we heard that Gerald Ford was originally going to choose Charles Mathias as his running mate. Just think about that. If that one group of delegates hadn't decided to interrupt Gerald Ford, we would have ended up with President Charles Mathias. President Mathias! Ha!
Speaking of the moderates... The Anderson delegates really put on a show afterwards..."
- Anonymous RNC '80 Delegate interviewed for the biographical documentary FORD: His Story
"After the balloting, the Anderson delegates - including the Anderson-dominated Vermont delegation - literally walked out of the convention. It was quite a scene as every delegate, including Ford and Reagan, and everyone watching the event on TV watched them walk out the front door. After the last one left, Brock announced that Congressman Gingrich of Georgia would give his speech, and the convention went on. Still, Anderson left his mark."
- House Minority Leader Bob Michel on the RNC
"It is my great honor tonight to inform the world that I am running for the presidency of the United States as an Independent."
- Rep. John B. Anderson (I-IL) announcing his independent candidacy, July 14 1980
CARTER ENDORSES KENNEDY IN MIDDLE OF REPUBLICAN CONVENTION
- The New York Times, July 15 1980
CONVENTION CLOSES, GOP BOOST IN POLLS
- The Washington Post, July 17 1980
"1980 was a fascinating year in Alabama ... The Senate election was very important that year, and the weeks before the Democratic and Republican primaries were very intense. The Democratic primary was a close race between the incumbent Senator, Donald Stewart, and the son of a previous governor, Jim Folsom Jr. It seemed likely that Folsom would win, as he was leading in the polls, but some wondered if Stewart could possibly survive the primaryIn the Republican primary, Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton was certain to win. And then there was former Governor George Wallace, the three-time presidential candidate, running as an Independent under the official 'Alabama for Wallace' Party. It was fascinating to watch."
- Anonymous Alabama citizen on the 1980 Alabama Senate Election
Alabama Republican Senatorial Primary, August 1 1980
Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton (USN, Ret.) - 95%
Other - 5%
Alabama Democratic Senatorial Primary, August 1 1980
Sen. Donald Stewart - 51.3%
Jim Folsom Jr. - 48.7%
STEWART SURVIVES PRIMARY, TO FACE DENTON (R) AND WALLACE (I) IN NOV.
- The Birmingham News, August 2 1980
Former Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton (USN, Ret.), Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Alabama.
Senator Donald W. Stewart (D-AL), Democratic senator running for re-election. Sen. Stewart narrowly survived a primary challenge from the son of former Governor Jim Folsom Sr., Jim Folsom Jr.
Former Governor George C. Wallace of Alabama, Independent candidate for U.S. Senate in Alabama. Wallace served as Governor of Alabama two times: From 1963 - 1967 and 1971 - 1979. Wallace ran for president as a Democrat in 1964, 1972, and 1976, and as an American Independent in 1968.
Democratic National Convention, August 11 - 14 1980Former Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton (USN, Ret.), Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Alabama.
Senator Donald W. Stewart (D-AL), Democratic senator running for re-election. Sen. Stewart narrowly survived a primary challenge from the son of former Governor Jim Folsom Sr., Jim Folsom Jr.
Former Governor George C. Wallace of Alabama, Independent candidate for U.S. Senate in Alabama. Wallace served as Governor of Alabama two times: From 1963 - 1967 and 1971 - 1979. Wallace ran for president as a Democrat in 1964, 1972, and 1976, and as an American Independent in 1968.
"I declare that Senator Edward Moore Kennedy of Massachusetts, brother of the great President John Fitzgerald Kennedy and the late Senator Robert Francis Kennedy of New York, has been nominated by this convention for President of the United States." Chairman John C. White watched as Senator Kennedy entered the stage to give his recommendation for the vice presidency.
"Thank you, thank you," a visibly beaming Kennedy boomed to the convention. "It is my privilege to endorse Senator Lloyd M. Bentsen for the Democratic vice presidential nomination!"
"This convention shall vote on a vice presidential nominee by voice vote," Chairman White announced. Very shortly, the voice vote made it clear that Bentsen won the nomination. Senator Bentsen entered the stage.
Later that day, President Jimmy Carter gave his farewell address to the convention. "Many expected me to run," Carter said. "Many expected me to stick through and fight tooth-and-nail to keep the Oval Office. But like any loyal Democrat, I saw that the challenges my office faced and currently faces has been unprecedented, and I saw that it was like no other occasion. And on this occasion, America required me to do my job thoroughly. And that's what Democrats are all about, and I know that's how well Ted Kennedy will do as the 40th President of the United States!"
The next day, Vice President Walter Mondale addressed the convention. "I thank President Carter for all that he has done for the nation and myself over the last four years. I have read about my predecessors to the vice presidency, and I was treated the best of all the vice presidents by our president. And I know that Teddy Kennedy will do the same for Lloyd Bentsen."
It was on the last day of the convention that Senator Kennedy gave his acceptance speech. "There's a long road ahead of us," Kennedy boomed to the convention. "I can only promise that I will try to my utmost ability to win. But in the case that America should reject my promises, keep in mind that the dream is out there. And when the dream is out - when the dream is alive - the dream shall never die."
"I understand that there has been much anxiousness over my running mate. There were a few under consideration, but the one that struck me the most as vice presidential material is the one that I have chosen. He was a candidate for the Democratic nomination, and he has promised to help me do what is considered impossible, and that is to win the two highest offices in the land on an independent ticket. Governor Cliff Finch of Mississippi is my running mate."
- Rep. John Anderson announcing his running mate, August 20 1980
Rep. John B. Anderson (I-IL), Independent candidate for President of the United States. Congressman Anderson was a former candidate for the Republican presidential nomination who won victory in Vermont, and had his delegates walk out of the Republican convention to support Anderson's independent bid. He has been representing Illinois's 16th District since 1961, elected in 1960 as a Republican.
Governor Cliff C. Finch (I-MS). Governor Finch, a former candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, joined Congressman Anderson's independent presidential campaign as Anderson's running mate. Governor Finch was Governor of Mississippi from 1976 - 1980, elected in 1975 as a Democrat.
The Campaigns of 1980 - Part One[1]
THE KENNEDY FOR PRESIDENT 1980 CAMPAIGN
Senator Edward Moore Kennedy of Massachusetts, Democratic Nominee for President of the United States in 1980
Senator Lloyd Millard Bentsen, Jr., of Texas, Democratic nominee for Vice President of the United States in 1980
Economically, Kennedy ran on a "New Deal Democrat" platform, promising to raise taxes but also ran on a "Free Trade" campaign.
The Campaigns of 1980 - Part Two
THE FORD FOR PRESIDENT CAMPAIGN
Former President Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr., of Michigan, Republican nominee for President of the United States in 1980
Former Governor Ronald Wilson Reagan of California, Republican nominee for Vice President of the United States in 1980
The Ford/Reagan campaign is historical because of its miraculousness. Traditionally, ever since Reagan had challenged then-President Ford for the Republican nomination in 1976, Ford and Reagan had been political archnemies within the party, making the conjoining of the two on one ticket in 1980 profoundly amazing. Furthermore, there was never an obvious moment of contempt shown by Ford or Reagan for the other at a campaign event. It is said that Reagan, despite not wanting to be the Vice President under Gerald Ford, had been overpowered by his dedication to the Republican Party and their wishes in deciding to accept Ford's vice-presidential invitation.
To heal the wounds from the Republican primary, television ads were often shown with pictures of Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan together at a rally, hands held high in the air, with huge smiles. Never a word was said about the division caused by the Republican primary, and so the wounds were minimized.
As previously stated, Ford and Reagan never ceased to attack Kennedy and even more so President Carter. It was to their benefit when, in late October, President Carter appeared on the air and defended himself and, to the Democrats' misbenefit, Senator Kennedy. Hunter S. Thompson, in his book 1980: The Making of a President, stated that: "... It was truly a campaign fought between Reagan, Kennedy, and Carter."
Congressman John Bayard Anderson of Illinois, Independent candidate for President of the United States
Former Governor Charles Clifton "Cliff" Finch of Mississippi, Independent candidate for Vice President of the United States
Platform of the Campaign
Congressman Anderson, who had served in the House of Representatives for twenty years and ran for president that same year as a Republican, had a campaign platform similar to the campaigns of Former Vice President Nelson Rockefeller, a hero to moderate Republicans (in fact, Anderson would claim during the campaign that Rockefeller was "his idol").
Techniques of the Campaign
As an independent campaign, it seemed likely that Anderson, though popular with the so-called Rockefeller Republicans, would face difficulties from the outset. However, it was just after the Republican convention that he bolted that he placed a very distant third place with 25%, with Ford/Reagan at 29% and Kennedy/Bentsen at 33%. Kennedy, the Democratic candidate, had promised earlier in the campaign to debate Anderson as well as Ford, and got his wish in having the first major party candidate since George Wallace attending the presidential debates. Ford, the Republican candidate, also accepted.
Anderson would put three major television commercials on the air during the campaign: One attacking Ford, one attacking Kennedy, and one solely focusing on Anderson and the impressive endorsements he had received. Among these endorsements were journalist Arthur Schlesinger, Garry Trudeau, Gore Vidal (who made several appearances at Anderson rallies), and Democratic Governor Patrick Lucey of Wisconsin (which gave Anderson a great boost there). All the children of former Vice President Nelson Rockefeller, who had died in January 1979, appeared at a press conference in which they endorsed Anderson. It is rumored that Jackie Kennedy, the wife of the late President John F. Kennedy, also voted for Anderson, though she did not publicly endorse him.
On October 1, Anderson and Finch held a massive rally in Los Angeles, which he would later call a "pseudo-convention." All those that had endorsed Anderson appeared at the rally along with others who wished to speak in favor of Anderson. Among those that spoke at the rally were Ed Clark, the former Libertarian candidate who had dropped out to endorse Anderson solely to promote political independence (despite some of their political differences); and Ralph Nader, the later perennial presidential candidate and Senator from Connecticut. Although he did not give a speech, future president Harry Turtledove, who lived in Los Angeles at the time, attended the rally and allegedly carried an Anderson for President sign. Turtledove would later admit during his 1984 Senate campaign that he had voted for Anderson.
The rally gave Anderson a huge boost in popularity, and on an October 10 poll, Anderson polled at 30%, only one point behind Ford and two points behind Kennedy.
House Elections
In General - The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) campaigned with a main theme of attacks on President Carter and Senator Edward Kennedy, the Democratic nominee for president that year. Republican House Leader Robert Michel of Illinois, who would be certain to become the next Speaker of the House in the event of a Republican takeover, mainly promised a "strong foreign policy, a strong economic policy, and a congressional majority that will either work with President Ford on the issues or keep a President Kennedy in check," as he summarized in late August of 1980. Among the incumbent Democrats targeted by the Republicans were Ron Dellums of California, Tom Harkin of Iowa, and Al Gore of Tennessee.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee took a defensive position on President Carter, claiming that "the president has performed his duty to the best of his ability." They also charged Rep. Michel and the House Republicans for "trying to shut down the government and kill the middle class."
Senate Elections
Alabama Senate Election - In Alabama, former Democratic Governor and four-time presidential candidate George C. Wallace ran for Senate as an Independent. The Republican primary saw an easy victory for a former Navy Rear Admiral, Jeremiah Denton, and the Democratic primary saw the narrow survival of incumbent Senator Donald Stewart over the son of former Governor Jim Folsom. Many powers in the Alabama Democratic Party abandoned Stewart and endorsed Wallace, while most Republicans endorsed Denton. Thus, Senator Stewart never rose above 20% in the polls, while Wallace and Denton stayed within three points of one another. Wallace ran a campaign based on grassroots and his experience of over twenty years in politics, while Denton campaigned on "Alabama's longing for a new political figure."
Arizona Senate Election - Incumbent Republican Sen. Barry Goldwater (R) ran for re-election against Democrat Bill Schulz. Goldwater had first been elected to the Senate in 1952, re-elected in 1958, and forego re-election to a third term to focus on a disastrous presidential campaign in 1964. In 1968, Goldwater returned to the Senate through Arizona's other Senate seat, and was re-elected by a large margin in 1974. However, this most famous Republican senator faced a tough re-election bid in 1980 as he consistently tied with the Democratic candidate in the polls. The Democratic Senatorial Senate Committee donated the most money to the Schulz campaign, while the National Republican Senatorial Committee donated the most to Goldwater's re-election campaign. Among Senator Goldwater's most frequent campaigners was his son, Republican Congressman Barry Goldwater Jr. of California.
South Dakota Senate Election - Three-term incumbent Democratic Senator and 1972 Democratic presidential nominee George McGovern ran for re-election to a fourth term in 1980. However, as South Dakota's political climate changed, so did Senator McGovern's chances at re-election. Though he tied with Republican opponent James Abdnor in the spring, Abdnor began to lead McGovern in most of the polls in the fall of 1980. Ted Kennedy, while campaigning in South Dakota for his presidential campaign, made several stops to campaign for Senator McGovern.
Election Results, November 4 1980
(R) Former President Gerald R. Ford (R-MI) / Former Gov. Ronald W. Reagan (R-CA) - 273 EVs, 44.34% PV
(D) Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA) / Sen. Lloyd M. Bentsen (D-TX) - 258 EVs, 43.89% PV
(I) Rep. John B. Anderson (I-IL) / Former Gov. Cliff Finch (I-MS) - 7 EVs, 11.77% PV
Incumbent President: Jimmy Carter (D-GA)
President-Elect: Gerald Ford (R-MI)
Incumbent Vice President: Walter Mondale (D-MN)
Vice President-Elect: Ronald Reagan (R-CA)
House of Representatives Standings, Jan. 3 1981
Democrats: 244 (-33)
Republicans: 190 (+32)
Continuing Speaker Tip O'Neill (D-MA)
Senate Standings, Jan. 3 1981
Republicans: 50 (+9, VP Majority on Jan. 20)
Democrats: 50 (-9) (Two Independents in Caucus)
Georgia Senate Election, 1980
Sen. Herman Talmadge (D) - 50.9% PV
Mark Mattingly (R) - 49.1% PV
Incumbent Senator: Herman Talmadge (D)
Senator-Elect: Herman Talmadge (D)
Seat Status: Democratic Hold
South Dakota Senate Election, 1980
Sen. George McGovern (D) - 48.3% PV
Rep. James Abdnor (R) - 48.2% PV
Incumbent Senator: George McGovern (D)
Senator-Elect: George McGovern (D)
Seat Status: Democratic Hold
Alabama Senate Election, 1980
Former Gov. George Wallace (I) - 41% PV
Adm. James Denton (R) - 38% PV
Sen. Donald Stewart (D) - 21% PV
Incumbent Senator: Donald Stewart (D)
Senator-Elect: George Wallace (I)
Seat Status: Independent Pick-Up
Arkansas Gubernatorial Election, 1980
Gov. Bill Clinton (D) - 51% PV
Frank D. White (R) - 49% PV
Incumbent Governor: Bill Clinton (D)
Governor-Elect: Bill Clinton (D)
Rep. John B. Anderson (I-IL), Independent candidate for President of the United States. Congressman Anderson was a former candidate for the Republican presidential nomination who won victory in Vermont, and had his delegates walk out of the Republican convention to support Anderson's independent bid. He has been representing Illinois's 16th District since 1961, elected in 1960 as a Republican.
Governor Cliff C. Finch (I-MS). Governor Finch, a former candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, joined Congressman Anderson's independent presidential campaign as Anderson's running mate. Governor Finch was Governor of Mississippi from 1976 - 1980, elected in 1975 as a Democrat.
The Campaigns of 1980 - Part One[1]
THE KENNEDY FOR PRESIDENT 1980 CAMPAIGN
Senator Edward Moore Kennedy of Massachusetts, Democratic Nominee for President of the United States in 1980
Senator Lloyd Millard Bentsen, Jr., of Texas, Democratic nominee for Vice President of the United States in 1980
Platform of the Campaign
Kennedy/Bentsen largely ran a campaign focusing on a strong foreign policy focusing on Theodore Roosevelt's theory of "Speak softly and carry a big stick." On the issue of the Iranian Hostage Crisis, Kennedy promised to continue negotiations with Iran but would "not be afraid to use military force to retrieve the hostages if all negotiating techniques failed," as he said at a rally in New York City on September 15, 1980. Kennedy lightly criticized President Carter for his handling of Operation Eagle Claw earlier that year.
Economically, Kennedy ran on a "New Deal Democrat" platform, promising to raise taxes but also ran on a "Free Trade" campaign.
Techniques of the Campaign
The campaign was broken up evenly into two parts: Daily political rallies and advertisement.
Nearly every day of the campaign between September 1 and November 4, Kennedy and Bentsen spoke at nationwide political rallies. Half of the rallies were in battleground states such as California, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Iowa, and Ohio, and the other half were spent in other, even somewhat smaller states. For example, despite the endorsement of native Vice President Walter Mondale virtually locked up the state of Minnesota for Kennedy, the Democratic campaign made two rallies in Minneapolis and Duluth in early October. Kennedy benefitted from his public speaking during the campaign.
The Democrats also spent much of the campaign on television, newspaper, and radio advertisements. Mainly, the advertisements were positive, though a good number of ads attacked Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan on their own accusations against the Democratic campaign.
The campaign was broken up evenly into two parts: Daily political rallies and advertisement.
Nearly every day of the campaign between September 1 and November 4, Kennedy and Bentsen spoke at nationwide political rallies. Half of the rallies were in battleground states such as California, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Iowa, and Ohio, and the other half were spent in other, even somewhat smaller states. For example, despite the endorsement of native Vice President Walter Mondale virtually locked up the state of Minnesota for Kennedy, the Democratic campaign made two rallies in Minneapolis and Duluth in early October. Kennedy benefitted from his public speaking during the campaign.
The Democrats also spent much of the campaign on television, newspaper, and radio advertisements. Mainly, the advertisements were positive, though a good number of ads attacked Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan on their own accusations against the Democratic campaign.
The Campaigns of 1980 - Part Two
THE FORD FOR PRESIDENT CAMPAIGN
Former President Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr., of Michigan, Republican nominee for President of the United States in 1980
Former Governor Ronald Wilson Reagan of California, Republican nominee for Vice President of the United States in 1980
Platform of the Campaign
Because the Republican ticket in 1980 was a result of a down-to-the-wire primary fight between Ford and Reagan, the official Republican platform was a hybrid of the two primary campaigns.
Economically, the campaign promised to institute the same economic policies that had been in effect during Ford's presidency from 1974 - 1977. Both candidates, carefully avoiding making statements contradictory to the other's, mutually attacked President Carter for his policies and continually claimed that Carter was responsible for the failing economy. Furthermore, they stated that Ted Kennedy's policies would be worse, and that to elect Kennedy as president would be to "drive the nail even deeper into the thumb," a phrase that would be common in later years.
On the issue of foreign policy, the Republican ticket more or less adopted Reagan's stance: A strong stance with "no concessions" to the Soviet Union, China, and every Communist nation, and using military force to retrieve the hostages in Tehran. Famously, Reagan, despite being only the vice-presidential nominee, often went rogue on this issue, and attacked Kennedy and Carter in each of his campaign speeches for a "weak-willed foreign policy."
Techniques of the CampaignBecause the Republican ticket in 1980 was a result of a down-to-the-wire primary fight between Ford and Reagan, the official Republican platform was a hybrid of the two primary campaigns.
Economically, the campaign promised to institute the same economic policies that had been in effect during Ford's presidency from 1974 - 1977. Both candidates, carefully avoiding making statements contradictory to the other's, mutually attacked President Carter for his policies and continually claimed that Carter was responsible for the failing economy. Furthermore, they stated that Ted Kennedy's policies would be worse, and that to elect Kennedy as president would be to "drive the nail even deeper into the thumb," a phrase that would be common in later years.
On the issue of foreign policy, the Republican ticket more or less adopted Reagan's stance: A strong stance with "no concessions" to the Soviet Union, China, and every Communist nation, and using military force to retrieve the hostages in Tehran. Famously, Reagan, despite being only the vice-presidential nominee, often went rogue on this issue, and attacked Kennedy and Carter in each of his campaign speeches for a "weak-willed foreign policy."
The Ford/Reagan campaign is historical because of its miraculousness. Traditionally, ever since Reagan had challenged then-President Ford for the Republican nomination in 1976, Ford and Reagan had been political archnemies within the party, making the conjoining of the two on one ticket in 1980 profoundly amazing. Furthermore, there was never an obvious moment of contempt shown by Ford or Reagan for the other at a campaign event. It is said that Reagan, despite not wanting to be the Vice President under Gerald Ford, had been overpowered by his dedication to the Republican Party and their wishes in deciding to accept Ford's vice-presidential invitation.
To heal the wounds from the Republican primary, television ads were often shown with pictures of Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan together at a rally, hands held high in the air, with huge smiles. Never a word was said about the division caused by the Republican primary, and so the wounds were minimized.
As previously stated, Ford and Reagan never ceased to attack Kennedy and even more so President Carter. It was to their benefit when, in late October, President Carter appeared on the air and defended himself and, to the Democrats' misbenefit, Senator Kennedy. Hunter S. Thompson, in his book 1980: The Making of a President, stated that: "... It was truly a campaign fought between Reagan, Kennedy, and Carter."
The Campaigns of 1980 - Part Three
THE ANDERSON FOR PRESIDENT CAMPAIGN
THE ANDERSON FOR PRESIDENT CAMPAIGN
Congressman John Bayard Anderson of Illinois, Independent candidate for President of the United States
Former Governor Charles Clifton "Cliff" Finch of Mississippi, Independent candidate for Vice President of the United States
Platform of the Campaign
Congressman Anderson, who had served in the House of Representatives for twenty years and ran for president that same year as a Republican, had a campaign platform similar to the campaigns of Former Vice President Nelson Rockefeller, a hero to moderate Republicans (in fact, Anderson would claim during the campaign that Rockefeller was "his idol").
Techniques of the Campaign
As an independent campaign, it seemed likely that Anderson, though popular with the so-called Rockefeller Republicans, would face difficulties from the outset. However, it was just after the Republican convention that he bolted that he placed a very distant third place with 25%, with Ford/Reagan at 29% and Kennedy/Bentsen at 33%. Kennedy, the Democratic candidate, had promised earlier in the campaign to debate Anderson as well as Ford, and got his wish in having the first major party candidate since George Wallace attending the presidential debates. Ford, the Republican candidate, also accepted.
Anderson would put three major television commercials on the air during the campaign: One attacking Ford, one attacking Kennedy, and one solely focusing on Anderson and the impressive endorsements he had received. Among these endorsements were journalist Arthur Schlesinger, Garry Trudeau, Gore Vidal (who made several appearances at Anderson rallies), and Democratic Governor Patrick Lucey of Wisconsin (which gave Anderson a great boost there). All the children of former Vice President Nelson Rockefeller, who had died in January 1979, appeared at a press conference in which they endorsed Anderson. It is rumored that Jackie Kennedy, the wife of the late President John F. Kennedy, also voted for Anderson, though she did not publicly endorse him.
On October 1, Anderson and Finch held a massive rally in Los Angeles, which he would later call a "pseudo-convention." All those that had endorsed Anderson appeared at the rally along with others who wished to speak in favor of Anderson. Among those that spoke at the rally were Ed Clark, the former Libertarian candidate who had dropped out to endorse Anderson solely to promote political independence (despite some of their political differences); and Ralph Nader, the later perennial presidential candidate and Senator from Connecticut. Although he did not give a speech, future president Harry Turtledove, who lived in Los Angeles at the time, attended the rally and allegedly carried an Anderson for President sign. Turtledove would later admit during his 1984 Senate campaign that he had voted for Anderson.
The rally gave Anderson a huge boost in popularity, and on an October 10 poll, Anderson polled at 30%, only one point behind Ford and two points behind Kennedy.
House, Senate, and Governor Elections in 1980
House Elections
In General - The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) campaigned with a main theme of attacks on President Carter and Senator Edward Kennedy, the Democratic nominee for president that year. Republican House Leader Robert Michel of Illinois, who would be certain to become the next Speaker of the House in the event of a Republican takeover, mainly promised a "strong foreign policy, a strong economic policy, and a congressional majority that will either work with President Ford on the issues or keep a President Kennedy in check," as he summarized in late August of 1980. Among the incumbent Democrats targeted by the Republicans were Ron Dellums of California, Tom Harkin of Iowa, and Al Gore of Tennessee.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee took a defensive position on President Carter, claiming that "the president has performed his duty to the best of his ability." They also charged Rep. Michel and the House Republicans for "trying to shut down the government and kill the middle class."
Senate Elections
Alabama Senate Election - In Alabama, former Democratic Governor and four-time presidential candidate George C. Wallace ran for Senate as an Independent. The Republican primary saw an easy victory for a former Navy Rear Admiral, Jeremiah Denton, and the Democratic primary saw the narrow survival of incumbent Senator Donald Stewart over the son of former Governor Jim Folsom. Many powers in the Alabama Democratic Party abandoned Stewart and endorsed Wallace, while most Republicans endorsed Denton. Thus, Senator Stewart never rose above 20% in the polls, while Wallace and Denton stayed within three points of one another. Wallace ran a campaign based on grassroots and his experience of over twenty years in politics, while Denton campaigned on "Alabama's longing for a new political figure."
Arizona Senate Election - Incumbent Republican Sen. Barry Goldwater (R) ran for re-election against Democrat Bill Schulz. Goldwater had first been elected to the Senate in 1952, re-elected in 1958, and forego re-election to a third term to focus on a disastrous presidential campaign in 1964. In 1968, Goldwater returned to the Senate through Arizona's other Senate seat, and was re-elected by a large margin in 1974. However, this most famous Republican senator faced a tough re-election bid in 1980 as he consistently tied with the Democratic candidate in the polls. The Democratic Senatorial Senate Committee donated the most money to the Schulz campaign, while the National Republican Senatorial Committee donated the most to Goldwater's re-election campaign. Among Senator Goldwater's most frequent campaigners was his son, Republican Congressman Barry Goldwater Jr. of California.
South Dakota Senate Election - Three-term incumbent Democratic Senator and 1972 Democratic presidential nominee George McGovern ran for re-election to a fourth term in 1980. However, as South Dakota's political climate changed, so did Senator McGovern's chances at re-election. Though he tied with Republican opponent James Abdnor in the spring, Abdnor began to lead McGovern in most of the polls in the fall of 1980. Ted Kennedy, while campaigning in South Dakota for his presidential campaign, made several stops to campaign for Senator McGovern.
Gubernatorial Elections
Arkansas Gubernatorial Election - One-term incumbent Governor William J. "Bill" Clinton ran a narrow re-election campaign against Republican Frank D. White. One of the main reasons for Clinton's unpopularity and White's support was the passing of a bill raising gas tags that had been signed into law by Governor Clinton in 1979. Also, an escape of Cuban refugees in 1980 had frightened the Arkansas population and had a negative effect on Governor Clinton's re-election campaign.
Election Results, November 4 1980
(R) Former President Gerald R. Ford (R-MI) / Former Gov. Ronald W. Reagan (R-CA) - 273 EVs, 44.34% PV
(D) Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA) / Sen. Lloyd M. Bentsen (D-TX) - 258 EVs, 43.89% PV
(I) Rep. John B. Anderson (I-IL) / Former Gov. Cliff Finch (I-MS) - 7 EVs, 11.77% PV
Incumbent President: Jimmy Carter (D-GA)
President-Elect: Gerald Ford (R-MI)
Incumbent Vice President: Walter Mondale (D-MN)
Vice President-Elect: Ronald Reagan (R-CA)
House of Representatives Standings, Jan. 3 1981
Democrats: 244 (-33)
Republicans: 190 (+32)
Continuing Speaker Tip O'Neill (D-MA)
Senate Standings, Jan. 3 1981
Republicans: 50 (+9, VP Majority on Jan. 20)
Democrats: 50 (-9) (Two Independents in Caucus)
Georgia Senate Election, 1980
Sen. Herman Talmadge (D) - 50.9% PV
Mark Mattingly (R) - 49.1% PV
Incumbent Senator: Herman Talmadge (D)
Senator-Elect: Herman Talmadge (D)
Seat Status: Democratic Hold
South Dakota Senate Election, 1980
Sen. George McGovern (D) - 48.3% PV
Rep. James Abdnor (R) - 48.2% PV
Incumbent Senator: George McGovern (D)
Senator-Elect: George McGovern (D)
Seat Status: Democratic Hold
Alabama Senate Election, 1980
Former Gov. George Wallace (I) - 41% PV
Adm. James Denton (R) - 38% PV
Sen. Donald Stewart (D) - 21% PV
Incumbent Senator: Donald Stewart (D)
Senator-Elect: George Wallace (I)
Seat Status: Independent Pick-Up
Arkansas Gubernatorial Election, 1980
Gov. Bill Clinton (D) - 51% PV
Frank D. White (R) - 49% PV
Incumbent Governor: Bill Clinton (D)
Governor-Elect: Bill Clinton (D)
"I was certainly more attentive to politics than I had been. They made a big deal about Anderson winning two states, and there was all the talk about Anderson running again in 1984. Although I considered volunteering for a political campaign in '82, I hadn't considered running for office on my own. I didn't get that idea for another year."
- Harry Turtledove
The Announced Cabinet Selections of President Ford, December 5 1980
President of the United States: Gerald R. Ford
Vice President of the United States: Ronald W. Reagan
Secretary of State: George Herbert Walker Bush
Secretary of the Treasury: Don Regan
Secretary of Defense: Donald Rumsfeld
Attorney General: James Baker
Secretary of the Interior: Thomas Kleppe
Secretary of Agriculture: John R. Block
Secretary of Commerce: Howard Baldridge
Secretary of Labor: John Dunlop
Secretary of Health and Human Services: Richard S. Schweiker
White House Chief of Staff: Alexander Haig
Ambassador to the United Nations: Colin Powell
"I guess I can explain the Cabinet nominations.
"I was one of the lucky ones - Ford and Reagan were agreed on having me on as the Attorney General. I guess I was lucky. I had worked against both of them in the primaries, running the Bush campaign. I was also known for being an attorney. I guess I was chosen to be Attorney General for the same reason that George Bush got to be Secretary of State: Compromise.
This was the same for Colin Powell and Al Haig. Powell had become a Brigadier General in June '79, but his resume was excellent. He'd been in Vietnam and South Korea, in the military since '58, and he had recommendations from many of the influences in the military to bring Colin Powell into the administration. And that's how he got to be Ambassador to the United Nations.
Reagan won over Ford for Secretary of the Treasury - that's why Don Regan got it. I know that if Reagan had been elected president in the first place, Regan would still have been the nominee for SecTreas.
Now, Reagan wasn't crazy about Rumsfeld, but Don had his qualifications. He'd had the position in the first Ford administration, and he'd done a good job. So Ford won that one.
The last big one that I'll talk about was Dick Schweiker. Now, there was a fight. Ford had Mathias to appease, and Reagan still had Schweiker to appease. They had the same reasons: a promised spot on a hypothetical ticket that didn't come to be. I guess that the runnerup for Attorney General was Senator Mathias, but because he didn't get that, the next logical choice was Health and Human Services. At the same time, Senator Schweiker was pressuring Reagan to give him a spot in the Cabinet, and Reagan couldn't exactly tell him "no" after what happened in '76.
Someone tipped off Mathias about the discussions. When Ford broke the rules and asked him if he would be up for HHS, Mathias, not wanting to get into the White House wars, said he would like to remain in the Senate for another six years: After all, he had just had been re-elected to the Senate, and by a landslide at that. That left Schweiker, and he accepted.
Yeah, that's the Cabinet, for all it's worth."
"I, Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr."
"Do solemnly swear to faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States,"
"Do solemnly swear to faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States,"
"And will to the best of my ability protect, defend, and preserve the Constitution of the United States,"
A look of confusion appeared on the President-Elect's face.
"And will to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States,"
Chief Justice Burger's face turned pink as he said, "So help you God?"
"So help me God."
"Congratulations, Mr. President."
President Gerald Ford retaking the Oath of Office in the Chamber of Congress, Jan. 21 1981. Former President Richard Nixon was invited to attend the inauguration and can be seen standing behind President Ford.
Q: What did you think about President Ford when he was inaugurated?
A: Well, I was still naive politically. Like I've said, I went from supporting Kennedy to Anderson in 1980, and after Ford's inauguration, I decided to support my President, which I do believe is a good thing to try and do.
Q: Now, Gerald Ford wasn't President very long after his inauguration, which is seen as one of the great tragedies in recent history...
A: Agreed, it was.
Q: ... Did you pay much attention to Ford's presidency?
A: Look, before 1980, I wasn't interested in politics at all. Most people become politically aware when they're... what, twelve, thirteen. The first campaign I really remember was Jack Kennedy's in 1960. I vaguely remember LBJ's campaign, then that tragedy of an election in '68, and I remember McGovern in '72 and of course Carter in '76. I remember all of these campaigns, but I wasn't involved. I had sentiments of anarchism in my youth, and I didn't really change my mind until twelve years ago.
Q: What did you like about President Ford?
A: I do remember watching the inauguration on TV periodically on Inauguration Day. I thought it was interesting that Ford would just leave the inaugural parade as suddenly as he did. The media made such a big deal about it, but all was forgiven when they found out that the hostages had come home and he was going there with Reagan to greet them. I also liked his economic program that he introduced a week later. It was moderate, which is what I liked. It didn't take too much money from the taxpayers, but it didn't set the scene for a bankrupt government later in life. Being the semi-activist that I was at the time, I... advocated the budget program at work.
Q: Now, before you ran for Congress, you moved to Kentucky. Tell me why you did that. Why didn't you go into California politics?
A: It wasn't so much that I didn't like California politics as that I just wanted a change. I mean, I didn't like my current job, which was writing for the Los Angeles Board of Education. I was writing, which I've always enjoyed, but I just didn't like my job. Laura and I discussed the topic for a long time, but we didn't really make our decision until after Gerry Ford's assassination.
Q: Why Kentucky?
A: I don't know; I've always answered that question by asking: Why not Kentucky?
Q: What did you remember about President Ford's assassination?
A: I remember a lot about it, naturally.
- The Washington Post Interview with Governor Harry Turtledove, Jan. 4 1992
2:32 P.M. EST: "... We have a shocking report coming from Washington, D.C.; according to our local sources, President Ford was shot an hour ago outside the Watergate Hotel Complex on his way to the Presidential Limousine. There are reports that President Ford was shot three times. He is currently unconscious and is on his way to the nearest hospital..."
2:55 P.M. EST:"... We have more reports coming in that the President is being operated on... The hospital has released a statement that not three, but four bullets were found by surgeons. One bullet skimmed a blood vessel in President Ford's neck, and there is heavy bleeding there. If not stopped, the heavy bleeding could become fatal...
3:01 P.M. EST: "More news from Washington: Vice President Reagan has been informed of the shooting at his residency in Number One Observatory Circle. And he is about to address the press live. We go to Vice President Reagan's press conference now...
VICE PRESIDENT REAGAN: Well, I heard about what's happened to President Ford. I don't really... have... much to say, except that I wish the President good luck on his surgery. I certainly hope that he will live and continue his service to the United States. Until Gerry can regain consciousness and resume his duties as the head of state, I am now Acting President. Again... I wish for the best.
Ted Turner, 3:21 P.M. EST: "We have... very tragic news from George Washington University Hospital in Washington. The hospital has declared that President Ford died of internal heavy bleeding at 3:04 P.M. EST, while in surgery. Vice President Reagan has been notified, and is currently on his way to the Capitol building to succeed the late President Ford.
"I, Ronald Wilson Reagan, do solemnly swear to faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. So help me God."
COMING UP: HARRY TURTLEDOVE!!!
- Harry Turtledove
"I wanted to do the most with my last few months in the presidency. A few weeks after the election, I flew to Italy, where the disaster of a magnitude seven earthquake killed thousands. I volunteered American aid to help the Italian government recover the area; I oversaw the the flight of Voyager I ; I signed the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, which improved the situation with hazardous waste; and I continued to negotiate on the issue of the Tehran Hostage Crisis. I was weary of the crisis. My approval ratings had plummeted because of it, and the Republicans had criticized my policy of peace the entire year.
The transitional meetings with President-Elect Ford and Vice President-Elect Reagan were kept to a minimum. It was awkward as I gave Ford a tour of his former home, which I did only for the purpose of tradition. Unsurprisingly, I had the most transitional meetings with Reagan, who had never before held a national office and was about to be the nation's Vice President on January 20 the next year. Walter was very generous to his successor, despite their ideological differences. Regardless of what was said in 1984, Walter never had the deep hatred of Reagan the person that the public suspected. It was the Reagan policies that Walter and myself despised."
- The Memoirs of an Ex-President, Jimmy Carter, 2008The transitional meetings with President-Elect Ford and Vice President-Elect Reagan were kept to a minimum. It was awkward as I gave Ford a tour of his former home, which I did only for the purpose of tradition. Unsurprisingly, I had the most transitional meetings with Reagan, who had never before held a national office and was about to be the nation's Vice President on January 20 the next year. Walter was very generous to his successor, despite their ideological differences. Regardless of what was said in 1984, Walter never had the deep hatred of Reagan the person that the public suspected. It was the Reagan policies that Walter and myself despised."
The Announced Cabinet Selections of President Ford, December 5 1980
President of the United States: Gerald R. Ford
Vice President of the United States: Ronald W. Reagan
Secretary of State: George Herbert Walker Bush
Secretary of the Treasury: Don Regan
Secretary of Defense: Donald Rumsfeld
Attorney General: James Baker
Secretary of the Interior: Thomas Kleppe
Secretary of Agriculture: John R. Block
Secretary of Commerce: Howard Baldridge
Secretary of Labor: John Dunlop
Secretary of Health and Human Services: Richard S. Schweiker
White House Chief of Staff: Alexander Haig
Ambassador to the United Nations: Colin Powell
"I guess I can explain the Cabinet nominations.
"I was one of the lucky ones - Ford and Reagan were agreed on having me on as the Attorney General. I guess I was lucky. I had worked against both of them in the primaries, running the Bush campaign. I was also known for being an attorney. I guess I was chosen to be Attorney General for the same reason that George Bush got to be Secretary of State: Compromise.
This was the same for Colin Powell and Al Haig. Powell had become a Brigadier General in June '79, but his resume was excellent. He'd been in Vietnam and South Korea, in the military since '58, and he had recommendations from many of the influences in the military to bring Colin Powell into the administration. And that's how he got to be Ambassador to the United Nations.
Reagan won over Ford for Secretary of the Treasury - that's why Don Regan got it. I know that if Reagan had been elected president in the first place, Regan would still have been the nominee for SecTreas.
Now, Reagan wasn't crazy about Rumsfeld, but Don had his qualifications. He'd had the position in the first Ford administration, and he'd done a good job. So Ford won that one.
The last big one that I'll talk about was Dick Schweiker. Now, there was a fight. Ford had Mathias to appease, and Reagan still had Schweiker to appease. They had the same reasons: a promised spot on a hypothetical ticket that didn't come to be. I guess that the runnerup for Attorney General was Senator Mathias, but because he didn't get that, the next logical choice was Health and Human Services. At the same time, Senator Schweiker was pressuring Reagan to give him a spot in the Cabinet, and Reagan couldn't exactly tell him "no" after what happened in '76.
Someone tipped off Mathias about the discussions. When Ford broke the rules and asked him if he would be up for HHS, Mathias, not wanting to get into the White House wars, said he would like to remain in the Senate for another six years: After all, he had just had been re-elected to the Senate, and by a landslide at that. That left Schweiker, and he accepted.
Yeah, that's the Cabinet, for all it's worth."
- Former Attorney General Jim Baker interviewed for The '80s
JOHN LENNON SURVIVES ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT AT NY HOME, NEAR-ASSASSIN ARRESTED
- The New York Times, Dec. 8 1980
"I, Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr.;"JOHN LENNON SURVIVES ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT AT NY HOME, NEAR-ASSASSIN ARRESTED
- The New York Times, Dec. 8 1980
"I, Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr."
"Do solemnly swear to faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States,"
"Do solemnly swear to faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States,"
"And will to the best of my ability protect, defend, and preserve the Constitution of the United States,"
A look of confusion appeared on the President-Elect's face.
"And will to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States,"
Chief Justice Burger's face turned pink as he said, "So help you God?"
"So help me God."
"Congratulations, Mr. President."
President Gerald Ford retaking the Oath of Office in the Chamber of Congress, Jan. 21 1981. Former President Richard Nixon was invited to attend the inauguration and can be seen standing behind President Ford.
Q: What did you think about President Ford when he was inaugurated?
A: Well, I was still naive politically. Like I've said, I went from supporting Kennedy to Anderson in 1980, and after Ford's inauguration, I decided to support my President, which I do believe is a good thing to try and do.
Q: Now, Gerald Ford wasn't President very long after his inauguration, which is seen as one of the great tragedies in recent history...
A: Agreed, it was.
Q: ... Did you pay much attention to Ford's presidency?
A: Look, before 1980, I wasn't interested in politics at all. Most people become politically aware when they're... what, twelve, thirteen. The first campaign I really remember was Jack Kennedy's in 1960. I vaguely remember LBJ's campaign, then that tragedy of an election in '68, and I remember McGovern in '72 and of course Carter in '76. I remember all of these campaigns, but I wasn't involved. I had sentiments of anarchism in my youth, and I didn't really change my mind until twelve years ago.
Q: What did you like about President Ford?
A: I do remember watching the inauguration on TV periodically on Inauguration Day. I thought it was interesting that Ford would just leave the inaugural parade as suddenly as he did. The media made such a big deal about it, but all was forgiven when they found out that the hostages had come home and he was going there with Reagan to greet them. I also liked his economic program that he introduced a week later. It was moderate, which is what I liked. It didn't take too much money from the taxpayers, but it didn't set the scene for a bankrupt government later in life. Being the semi-activist that I was at the time, I... advocated the budget program at work.
Q: Now, before you ran for Congress, you moved to Kentucky. Tell me why you did that. Why didn't you go into California politics?
A: It wasn't so much that I didn't like California politics as that I just wanted a change. I mean, I didn't like my current job, which was writing for the Los Angeles Board of Education. I was writing, which I've always enjoyed, but I just didn't like my job. Laura and I discussed the topic for a long time, but we didn't really make our decision until after Gerry Ford's assassination.
Q: Why Kentucky?
A: I don't know; I've always answered that question by asking: Why not Kentucky?
Q: What did you remember about President Ford's assassination?
A: I remember a lot about it, naturally.
- The Washington Post Interview with Governor Harry Turtledove, Jan. 4 1992
2:32 P.M. EST: "... We have a shocking report coming from Washington, D.C.; according to our local sources, President Ford was shot an hour ago outside the Watergate Hotel Complex on his way to the Presidential Limousine. There are reports that President Ford was shot three times. He is currently unconscious and is on his way to the nearest hospital..."
2:55 P.M. EST:"... We have more reports coming in that the President is being operated on... The hospital has released a statement that not three, but four bullets were found by surgeons. One bullet skimmed a blood vessel in President Ford's neck, and there is heavy bleeding there. If not stopped, the heavy bleeding could become fatal...
3:01 P.M. EST: "More news from Washington: Vice President Reagan has been informed of the shooting at his residency in Number One Observatory Circle. And he is about to address the press live. We go to Vice President Reagan's press conference now...
VICE PRESIDENT REAGAN: Well, I heard about what's happened to President Ford. I don't really... have... much to say, except that I wish the President good luck on his surgery. I certainly hope that he will live and continue his service to the United States. Until Gerry can regain consciousness and resume his duties as the head of state, I am now Acting President. Again... I wish for the best.
Ted Turner, 3:21 P.M. EST: "We have... very tragic news from George Washington University Hospital in Washington. The hospital has declared that President Ford died of internal heavy bleeding at 3:04 P.M. EST, while in surgery. Vice President Reagan has been notified, and is currently on his way to the Capitol building to succeed the late President Ford.
"I, Ronald Wilson Reagan, do solemnly swear to faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. So help me God."
COMING UP: HARRY TURTLEDOVE!!!