Given how close the election was I'm surprised that Ford winning hasn't been brought up more often. Any number of POD's could give him a boost -for instance if he hadn't pardoned Nixon or if he'd avoided his "soviet domination" gaffe. So suppose things had gone a little better for him and he'd won a narrow but real victory in the election (although he might end up losing the popular vote,W style). What happens next?
I'm inclined to think that his second term wouldn't be a very happy one. All the issues that plagued Carter -stagflation,Iran etc. had their roots before then , although I suppose there is the possibility that Ford might be able to deal with them better. He'll also have something of an image problem- his most distinguishing feature is falling down the stairs that one time. In any case ,given the trouble he had securing the nomination in 76 I doubt he'd seek another term.
So what would happen in 1980? Would the GOP still nominate Reagan or would someone else have a chance? Who would the Democrats nominate? Can even the Great Communicator win when his party is the face of malaise?
I'm interested in hearing everyone's thoughts on this.