1964: Lyndon Johnson vs. Barry Goldwater

[Oldiesfreak1854]

"Mark my word, if and when these preachers get control of the [Republican] party, and they're sure trying to do so, it's going to be a terrible damn problem." Goldwater easily, enthusiastically, and without regrets. Greatest President we never had, especially compared to the quality of his opponent.

That comment was almost prophetic.  Anyway, Goldwater.  I would've supported Nelson Rockefeller in the primaries, but since Goldwater was nominated, and especially considering what a jerk LBJ really was, the choice is still pretty easy for me.

[Oldiesfreak1854]

I'm honored to be considered a real horrible person by you, Lief.

Ditto.

[Oldiesfreak1854]

all the way with LBJ and the great society! in your gut you know Goldwater is nuts (and against civil rights and healthcare)

Uh, no he wasn't.  He supported most civil rights legislation prior to the 1964 CRA, was a founding member of the Arizona NAACP, and was involved in making his family's department stores among the first in the state to be desegregated.  He opposed the 1964 CRA because he (wrongly) believed the Constitution required to be resolved by states and was unnecessary due to the 14th Amendment.