Camelot Rises: 1960 and On

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Final Congressional Make-Up
- The Senate

AP -- November 3, 1976
Deep Red indicates that the state has two Democratic Senators. Deep Blue indicates that the state has two Republican Senators. Light Blue indicates that the state has one Senator from each party. Pink indicates that the state has one Democratic Senator and one Independent Senator (both caucus with the different parties). There are 48 Republican Senators, 48 Democratic Senators, and 2 Independent Senators. The independent Senators are West Virginia Senator Harry F. Byrd, Jr., who does not caucus with either party, and Virginia Senator Robert C. Byrd, who caucuses with the Democrats for committee purposes. Senator Robert Byrd ran for re-election as an independent after an internal party struggle removed him from the position of Senate Majority Whip. Some notable races last night came were the upset of Howard W. Cannon of Nevada. The Democratic Senator was ousted from his seat after 17 years by former Lieutenant Governor Edward Fike. Former Governor Francis W. Sargent of Massachusetts won the election to now-Governor Ted M. Kennedy’s seat in the Bay State.
 The Republicans will be the majority party in the House with 252 seats. The Democrats will hold 183.

President Kennedy Receives Weak Mandate, Divided Government

AP -- November 24, 1976

Although he won handily in his re-election President Robert F. Kennedy did not help enough down the ballot. The Democrats lost 13 Seats in the Senate and 108 seats in the House of Representatives. There is no Majority party in the Senate, as both the Democrats and Republicans have 48 seats, but the Democrats can technically command a majority thanks to the two Independent Senators.
  Congressman Charles E. “Chuck” Grassley of the 3rd Iowa District has been elected Speaker of the House by the Republican Caucus. The Republicans also elected John J. Rhodes of the Arizona 1st District as Majority Leader and C. Trent Lott of the 5th Mississippi District as Majority Whip. The Democrats chose former Presidential Candidate Thomas P. “Tip” O’Neill of the 8th Massachusetts District as the Minority Leader and James C. “Jim” Wright, Jr. of the 12th Texas District as Minority Whip.
  The Democratic Caucus in the Senate elected Senator Walter F. Mondale of Minnesota as the Majority Leader, and former Vice Presidential Nominee George S. McGovern of South Dakota as the Majority Whip. The Republicans elected former Presidential Nominee Robert J. Dole of Kansas as the Minority Leader and Edward Brooke of Massachusetts as the Minority Whip.

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President Kennedy Inaugurated For Second Time

AP -- January 20, 1977

President Robert F. Kennedy, brother of the late John F. Kennedy, was sworn in for a second term today by Chief Justice Warren Burger. He was greeted by massive crowds in the National Mall despite the bitter cold. His speech was very similar to his first, calling for national unity as well as a new call to “care for those of us who are less fortunate.” His new mission has been viewed by some as the President’s response to the growing unemployment rate. The President’s speech, however, was largely overshadowed by a speech given by Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter, Jr. Governor Carter (D), a peanut farmer by profession, gave a stirring speech calling for the normalization of relations with Russia, China, and Iran, while also calling for further civil rights legislation to be enacted. Governor Carter is being speculated as the natural successor to President Kennedy,

Overview of the Second Robert F. Kennedy Administration - Pre-Mid-Term
1977:
- President Kennedy issues a pardon for anyone who evaded the draft during the Vietnam War
- President Kennedy allows women into the Marine Corps, in Non-Combat roles
- The Department of Energy is created by Executive Order
- National Guard and Army personnel are used to maintain order during a 25 hour blackout in New York City.
1978:
- The Voyager 2 Spacecraft is launched to explore the outer solar system
- Ration cards are issued due to petroleum shortages
- Unemployment reaches 8.4%, President Kennedy’s approval rating sinks to 45%.
- Democratic-controlled Senate confirms James E. Carter as SoE by a vote of 61-39

Blackout in NYC, National Guard Called In To Maintain Order

AP -- July 13, 1977
The City of New York is sitting in darkness this evening, after a series of lightening storms blew various circuit breakers and substations across the city. Under the request of Governor Hugh Carey (D), who declared the city a disaster area, and Mayor Abe Beame (D) President Robert F. Kennedy has ordered various National Guard troops to be federalized and moved into New York City. In a Press Conference President Kennedy said “The purpose of sending the National Guard into [New York City] is to maintain order and protect the people and the property of New York City.” However, there have been reports of brutality against the citizens of New York by police and the National Guard. The White House, Governor, and Mayor all did not comment on these reports.
 
Ration Cards To Be Handed Out for Petroleum

AP -- July 9, 1978

  Due to the instability in Iran and an embargo placed on exports of oil by OAEPEC, President Robert Kennedy announced that ration cards will now be used to dole out what petrolium there is. Long lines outside of gas stations have been cited across the nation, as well as some reports of violence. The President urged calmness in the face of “this great Oil Crisis that we are facing.” The President also said that he expected this to be a short event as his administration is beginning new negotiations with OAEPEC nations to lift the embargo, which began nearly 3 weeks ago. President Kennedy also announced that Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter will be coming into the cabinet as the second Secretary of Energy. Governor Carter holds a degree in reactor technology and nuclear physics. Governor Carter, who needs to be approved by the Senate, has announced he will pursue policies of conservation regarding energy, as well as providing funding for emerging alternative energies, such as solar power.

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Republicans Gain Senate, Maintain House
- The Senate

AP -- November 8, 1978

Deep Red indicates that the state has two Democratic Senators. Deep Blue indicates that the state has two Republican Senators. Light Blue indicates that the state has one Senator from each party. Pink indicates that the state has one Democratic Senator and one Independent Senator. Green indicates that the state has one Republican Senator and one Independent Senator. For the first time since 1955 the Republican Party holds a majority in both Houses of Congress. There are 56 Republican Senators, 42 Democratic Senators, 1 Independent Senator Caucusing with the Democratic Party, and 1 Independent Senator not caucusing with either party.
  The Republican Senate Caucus elected former Presidential Nominee Robert J. Dole of Kansas as the Majority Leader and Edward Brooke of Massachusetts as the Majority Whip. The Democratic Caucus elected Walter F. Mondale of Minnesota as the Minority Leader and Dale L. Bumper of Arkansas as the Minority Whip.
  The Republicans will be the majority party in the House with 264 seats. The Democrats will hold 171.
  Chuck E. Grassley of the Iowa 3rd District will remain as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, as well as John J. Rhodes of the Arizona 1st District as Majority Leader. Mark Andrews of the At-Large North Dakota District will be joining the Republican Leadership as the  Majority Whip. The Democratic Leadership will remain the same, with Thomas P. “Tip” O’Neill of the 8th Massachusetts District as the Minority Leader and James C. “Jim” Wright, Jr. of the 12th Texas District as Minority Whip.

Overview of the Second Robert F. Kennedy Administration - Post Mid-Term
1979
- The Bayh-Dole Act is signed by President Kennedy
- Gas rationing ends as OAEPEC lifts it’s embargo after negotiations with SoE Carter.
- Iranian Revolutionaries overrun the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and take 66 Embassy Staff as hostages. President Kennedy orders that Ayatollah Khomeini liberate the Embassy, to no avail
- Protests break out across the U.S. in response to the Hostage Crisis, and there is violence against Iranian- and Middle Eastern-Americans across the country

1980
- An attempted rescue of the Embassy Hostages, codenamed Operation Eagle Claw, fails when two helicopters crash in the desert of Iran. 8 American servicemen die.
- President Kennedy sends SoS George McGovern to Iraq in an attempt to draw up support for an international coalition to rescue the Iranian Hostages. He fails to gain any serious support.
- Iran and Iraq go to War, President Kennedy offers tentative support to Iraq by means of economic aide and shared intelligence.

Embassy Hostage Crisis

AP -- November 4, 1979

A group of Iranian Revolutionaries, fresh off toppling the Shah from power, stormed the United States Embassy in Tehran this morning and took 66 members of the embassy staff as hostages. The Revolutionaries claim they took hold of the embassy as a “message that we will not accept the U.S. giving medical aid to the Shah.” President Robert Kennedy spent most of the day in the Situation Room of the White House, receiving reports every half-hour by the Secretaries of State and Defense. The President addressed the nation at 8:00PM from the Oval Office, saying “The United States will not give into the will of these terrorists, and we will not be forced into assisting the Islamic Regime in Iran.” President Kennedy challenged Ayatollah Khomeini to “liberate the embassy and release the citizens of the United States” or the Ayatollah would soon see “the wrath of the United States.” The Ayatollah did not respond and no moves have been made towards liberation of the embassy.

Dole’s In It Again, Albert’s Out

AP -- November 12, 1979

 Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole of Kansas will be seeking the Presidency once more, after losing in a landslide to President Robert Kennedy in 1976. At a rally in Wichita Senator Dole, aged 57, announced he would be running for President “for the 66 Americans trapped in Iran.” In his speech, Senator Dole said that America needs a President with a “serious military background” to deal with the crisis in Iran. He also said, to massive applause, “I am the man with the past to prove I am capable to handle the future!”
  One who won’t be seeking the Oval Office is Vice President Carl Albert, aged 72. Through a letter released to the news-media the Vice President said he will not run for President due to failing health and increasing age. This has opened the field to various other candidates, including Secretary of Energy Jimmy Carter.

Bush, Dalton In For GOP, Wallace, Askew In For Democrats

AP -- December 1, 1979

  Since Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole announced he would run for President, a slew of other candidates have launched campaigns. The biggest news is that Secretary of Energy Jimmy Carter hasn’t launched a campaign. Former CIA Director George H.W. Bush of Texas launched his campaign in Texas on the 18th of November, saying that his experience as CIA Director prepared him to handled “any foreign crisis” that could arise. The next day former Alabama Governor George Wallace announced his second campaign for President. The former Governor has renounced his segregationist views and says that he is running on a “populist” platform at a press conference in Birmingham. Florida Governor Reubin Askew, a Democrat, launched his campaign for President on the 21st in Tallahassee, promoting his education policy in Florida as well as saying he would create “A federal department of Education, to ensure children in Ohio receive the same level of education as children in California.” The final candidate of the month was Governor John Dalton of Virginia, a Republican. He announced his campaign at a press conference in Richmond, and said that he would run on a campaign “based on the people, and focused on listening to the people.”

Carter, Kennedy Will Not Run, Senator Mathias Will

AP -- December 21, 1979

  Secretary of Energy Jimmy carter announced, in an interview with NBC host John Chancellor, that he would not be running for President in 1980. The official purpose of the interview was to discuss the solution to the oil shortage that the Secretary negotiated but Chancellor snuck the question of a presidential run.  Carter laughed before saying “It is not the time for a Presidential run, for me.” Massachusetts Governor Ted Kennedy, brother of President Robert Kennedy, has announced he also will not run to succeed his brother. With these announcements, it looks as though the Democrats will lose the White House after 8 years as there is not a strong Democratic candidate to take the place of the Secretary of Energy or the Governor of Massachusetts. However, for the Republicans, Senator Charles Mathias of Maryland announced he would run for the White House at a fundraiser in Baltimore, saying that he is the “moderate problem-solver in the race.”

Operation Eagle Claw Fails, President Humiliated

AP -- April 25, 1980

  We are learning this morning that a military operation to liberate the U.S. Embassy in Iran. We are also learning that the operation failed. Codenamed “Operation Eagle Claw” the plan was to fly 8 Helicopters to the embassy and air-lift the staff out, returning them to safety. The President had written an address, we’ve been told, congratulating the safe return of the Americans. However, the Operation was doomed from the start. One of the helicopters had a hydraulic problem crashed before the mission seriously began, and another got caught in a cloud of fine sand and was forced to land. After the mission was aborted, under orders from the President, one of the remaining 6 helicopters crashed into another due to a communications error and sent two Sea Stallion helicopters crashing into the desert. All in total, 8 Americans were killed in the planned rescue mission.

[DKrol]

1980 Primary Contests

Republicans


Senate Majority Leader Robert J. “Bob” Dole of Kansas


Senator Charles M. Mathias, Jr. of Maryland


Former CIA Director George H.W. Bush of Texas


Governor John N. Dalton of Virginia

Democrats


Former Governor George C. Wallace of Alabama


Former Governor Reubin O. Askew of Florida

January 15 Polls:

1980 Republican Presidential Primary:
B. Dole: 51%
G. Bush: 43%
C. Mathias: 6%

1980 Democratic Presidential Primary:
R. Askew: 56%
G. Wallace: 44%

1980 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/Pierre S. du Pont IV: 55%
Reubin O. Askew/Walter F. Mondale: 45%

1980 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/Pierre S. du Pont IV: 59%
George C. Wallace/Russell B. Long: 41%

1980 Presidential Election:
Charles M. Mathias, Jr/John G. Tower: 53%
Reubin O. Askew/Walter F. Mondale: 47%

1980 Presidential Election:
Charles M. Mathias, Jr/John G. Tower: 55%
George C. Wallace/Russell B. Long: 45%

1980 Presidential Election:
George H.W. Bush/Ronald W. Reagan: 54%
Reubin O. Askew/Walter F. Mondale: 46%

1980 Presidential Election:
George H.W. Bush/Ronald W. Reagan: 57%
George C. Wallace/Russell B. Long: 43%

1980 Presidential Election:
John N. Dalton/Bob W. Packwood: 48%
Reubin O. Askew/Walter F. Mondale: 48%

1980 Presidential Election:
John N. Dalton/Bob W. Packwood: 52%
George C. Wallace/Russell B. Long: 48%

*All Polls have a margin of error of 5%

Dole, Askew Seen as Front Runners

AP -- January 20, 1980

  On the eve of the first primary contest of the 1980 Presidential election both parties have a clear frontrunner. Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole of Kansas leads his closest opponent by 8%, nationally, for the Republicans, while Governor Reubin Askew of Florida is leading former Governor George C. Wallace of Alabama by 12%, nationally, for the Democrats. Governor Wallace is still remembered for his segregationist views and statements, although he says he has given up those views. Senator Dole has been viewed as the leader of the Republicans across the country, not just the Senate, since his Presidential campaign in 1976. He has been a vocal critic of the Kennedy Administration and even more highly critical of the Administration’s response to the Iranian Hostage crisis. Senator Dole is leading by 5% in Iowa over former CIA Director George H.W. Bush. Mr. Bush is viewed as the most conservative candidate, while Senator Dole is viewed as the more moderate of the Republican slate. On the Democratic side Governor Reubin Askew is leading in Iowa by 16%.

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Iowa Caucus

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 52%
George H.W. Bush: 23%
Charles M. Mathias: 17%
John N. Dalton: 8%

Democrats

Reubin O. Askew: 43%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 42%
George C. Wallace: 15%

Puerto Rico Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 48%
Robert J. Dole: 43%
John N. Dalton: 7%
Charles M. Mathias: 2%

Democrats

(Write-In) James E. Carter: 62%
Reubin O. Askew: 26%
George C. Wallace: 12%

New Hampshire Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 55%
Charles M. Mathias: 34%
George H.W. Bush: 10%
John N. Dalton: 1%

Democrats

(Write-In) Edward M. Kennedy: 47%
Reubin O. Askew: 45%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 4%
George C. Wallace: 4%

Massachusetts Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 50%
George H.W. Bush: 35%
Charles M. Mathias: 12%
John N. Dalton: 3%

Democrats

(Write-In) Edward M. Kennedy: 53%
Reubin O. Askew: 21%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 21%
George C. Wallace: 5%

Vermont Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 43%
George H.W. Bush: 32%
Charles M. Mathias: 23%
John N. Dalton: 2%

Democrats

(Write-In) Edward M. Kennedy: 53%
Reubin O. Askew: 21%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 21%
George C. Wallace: 5%

Dole Surging, Askew Struggling

AP -- March 6, 1980

Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole is doing exactly was expected of his, he’s winning. He’s won 4 of the first 5 Primaries, losing only Puerto Rico to former CIA Director George H.W. Bush. Virginia Governor John Dalton has said that South Carolina will be his last stand, if he cannot score a victory there on the 8th he has said he will suspend his campaign. The biggest surprise of the early primaries is how badly Florida Governor Reubin Askew is doing. He’s lost 4 of the first 5 primaries to write-in Candidates (Mass. Governor Ted Kennedy in Massachusetts and Vermont, Secretary of Energy Jimmy Carter in Puerto Rico). This is being taken as a sign that the Florida Governor is not who’s wanted by the party, but Governor Kennedy has made it clear he will not run for President in 1980 and has urged voters to stop writing-in his name. Secretary Carter has not spoken about the election since his December 21 interview with John Chancellor.

[DKrol]

South Carolina Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 32%
John N. Dalton: 31%
Robert J. Dole: 30%
Charles M. Mathias: 7%


Democrats

George C. Wallace: 46%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 32%
Reubin O. Askew: 22%

Governor Dalton Suspends Campaign, Endorses Senator Dole
AP -- March 9, 1980

Alabama Primary
Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 48%
Robert J. Dole: 35%
Charles M. Mathias: 17%


Democrats

George C. Wallace: 61%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 27%
Reubin O. Askew: 12%

Florida Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 53%
George H.W. Bush: 26%
Charles M. Mathias: 21%

Democrats

Reubin O. Askew: 65%
George C. Wallace: 35%

Georgia Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 55%
Robert J. Dole: 40%
Charles M. Mathias: 15%

Democrats

George C. Wallace: 43.6%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 43.4%
Reubin O. Askew: 14%


Former Vice President Jerry Ford Endorses Senator Dole

AP -- March 13, 1980

Illinois Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 46%
Charles M. Mathias: 34%
George H.W. Bush: 20%

Democrats

Reubin O. Askew: 49%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 32%
George C. Wallace: 19%

Republican Primary Map - As Of March 18, 1980

Senate Majority Leader Robert J. Dole
Former CIA Director George H.W. Bush
Senator Charles M. Mathias

Democratic Primary Map - As Of March 18, 1980

Former Governor Reubin O. Askew
Governor Edward M. Kennedy
Former Governor George C. Wallace

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Connecticut Primary

Republicans

Charles M. Mathias: 42.7%
George H.W. Bush: 42.3%
Robert J. Dole: 16%

Democrats

Reubin O. Askew: 43%
(Write-in) Edward M. Kennedy: 41%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 12%
George C. Wallace: 4%

Former Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson Endorses Secretary Carter, Leads Draft Movement
AP -- March 28, 1980

Kansas Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 68%
George H.W. Bush: 17%
Charles M. Mathias: 15%

Democrats

(Write-In) James E. Carter: 45%
Reubin O. Askew: 35%
George C. Wallace: 20%

Wisconsin Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 51%
George H.W. Bush: 39%
Charles M. Mathias: 10%

Democrats

Reubin O. Askew: 50%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 31%
George C. Wallace: 19%

Senator Mathias Suspends Campaign, Endorses Dole
AP -- April 2, 1980

April 4 Polls:

1980 Republican Presidential Primary:
B. Dole: 53%
G. Bush: 47%

1980 Democratic Presidential Primary:
J. Carter: 52%
R. Askew: 27%
G. Wallace: 21%

1980 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/Pierre S. du Pont IV: 57%
Reubin O. Askew/Walter F. Mondale: 43%

1980 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/Pierre S. du Pont IV: 61%
George C. Wallace/Russell B. Long: 39%

1980 Presidential Election:
George H.W. Bush/Ronald W. Reagan: 55%
Reubin O. Askew/Walter F. Mondale: 45%

1980 Presidential Election:
George H.W. Bush/Ronald W. Reagan: 58%
George C. Wallace/Russell B. Long: 42%

*All Polls have a margin of error of 5%

[DKrol]

Former Governor Ronald Reagan of California Endorses George H.W. Bush
AP -- April 4, 1980

Louisiana Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 54%
George H.W. Bush: 46%

Democrats

(Write-In) James E. Carter: 42%
George C. Wallace: 41%
Reubin O. Askew: 17%

Pennsylvania Primary

Republicans

Robert J. Dole: 52%
George H.W. Bush: 48%

Democrats

Reubin O. Askew: 47%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 34%
George C. Wallace: 19%

George H.W. Bush Suspends Campaign, Endorses Dole
AP -- April 30, 1980

Final Republican Primary Map

Senate Majority Leader Robert J. Dole
Former CIA Director George H.W. Bush
Senator Charles M. Mathias

Texas Primary

Democrats

George C. Wallace: 34.9%
(Write-In) James E. Carter: 34.1%
Reubin O. Askew: 32%

Carter To Run For Senate

AP -- May 4, 1980

At a Press Conference in Atlanta, Georgia Secretary of Energy Jimmy Carter addressed the draft campaign that has been going on throughout the Democratic Primaries and won him two states. Secretary Carter, flanked by President Robert Kennedy and Georgia Senator Herman Talmadge, announced he will resign as Secretary of Energy effective immediately to run for the Class 3 Senate Seat in Georgia. Incumbent Senator Talmadge said he would not run for re-election to allow Secretary Carter a primary-free contest. He will face off against the Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party Mack Mattingly.

Wallace Suspends Campaign, Does Not Endorse Askew
AP -- May 5, 1980

Final Democratic Primary Map

Former Governor Reubin O. Askew
Governor Edward M. Kennedy
Former Governor George C. Wallace
Secretary of Energy James E. Carter

[DKrol]

Dole, Bush Nominated in Detroit

AP -- July 17, 1980

 For the second time Senator Bob Dole of Kansas, serving since 1969, was nominated by the Republican Party to run for President. He was met by throngs of supporters both inside the Joe Louis Arena and outside, on the streets of Detroit. Senator Dole walked down the street to the convention, shaking hands and talking with low-income and African-American citizens along the way. One special moment along the way came when Senator Dole, a former Second Lieutenant during World War II, met a handicapped, African-American Vietnam veteran. Senator Dole stopped and talked with the veteran, 34-year old Eric Matthews, for 15 minutes. As Senator Dole went to move on he decided to give Matthews two V.I.P. passes to the convention. Matthews said “I’m a Democrat, but I’m voting to Bob.” Senator Dole’s convention speech focused on the Iranian Hostage Crisis and the failures of the Kennedy administration. A surprise move came when Senator Dole announced he had tapped former CIA Director George H.W. Bush to be his running mate, many commentators had expected him to select Governors Pierre du Pont IV of Delaware, a fellow moderate.

Askew, Mondale Nominated in New York City

AP -- August 14, 1980

Former Florida Governor Reubin O. Askew, who served from 1971 to 1979, was nominated by the Democratic Party as their candidate for President in New York City. Protests raged outside of Madison Square Garden in response to the Iranian Hostage Crisis and the police brutality during the 1977 Blackout. Inside the delegates were not as enthusiastic as they had been at previous conventions. Governor Askew was clearly not the first choice of the Democrats, but he is what they have. His speech was bland, focusing on his calls for a national set of common standards for education. Governor Askew chose Senate Minority Leader Walter F. Mondale of Minnesota as his running mate.

Civil Rights An Issue in 1980?

AP -- August 30, 1980

  Is Civil Rights an issue in 1980? Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole seems to think so. The Senator announced that he would present to Congress, within his first term, a new Civil Rights Act. The new bill would entail new measures to ensure that African-Americans are protected, and their right to vote is protected explicitly. After meeting voters in Detroit, Senator Dole said, “the level in-equality based on race is too high for the end of the 20th Century and I will seek to change that!” The African-American community, which has been a solidly Democratic base since the election of 1964, is leaning towards Senator Dole according to new polls. Governor Reubin Askew did not comment on the bill itself but he did say that he supports “equality for all Americans.”

Dole Headed to Israel

AP -- September 3, 1980

Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole has announced that he will be taking a tour of Israel to “expand my knowledge of the foreign policy of the United States.” Israel is the most stable country in the Middle East at this point in time, as Iran and Iraq are at war and the rest of the region is on the brink of war. Senator Dole will meet with Israeli President Yitzhak Navon and other Israeli lawmakers in Jerusalem, where they will discuss the issues facing Israel and the Jewish community in general. Governor Reubin Askew said he would be staying the United States, focusing on “issues in America.”

Dole Wins Again

AP -- October 12, 1980

In the only debate of the 1980 Presidential Election Senator Bob Dole ran away with it, as he did in 1976 against President Robert Kennedy. The debate, held on the campus of Saint Anselm's in New Hampshire, was moderated by CBS’ Dan Rather and was a series of punches by Senator Dole. Governor Reubin Askew came across as weak and unsure, stammering often and mispronouncing words. Senator Dole lamented Governor Askew for taking “a weak stance on the Iranian Hostage Crisis. You, and this Administration, want to just wait around for the Ayatollah to release the 66 Americans. Well you’ll be waiting until 2000 if you wait for the Ayatollah to help the United States!” The Hostage Crisis was key point of the debate, as was Senator Dole’s proposed “Voting Rights Act”. Governor Askew won a few points when the topic of education was brought up and he said that he would expand Head Start to provide universal Pre-K to all children across the nation.

October 13 Polls

Who do you think won the Presidential debate last night?
Senator Robert J. Dole: 56%
Former Governor Reubin O. Askew: 44%

1980 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 57%
Reubin O. Askew/Walter F. Mondale: 43%

[DKrol]

Election Night -- 1980

Tom Brokaw: Hello ladies and gentlemen, I’m Tom Brokaw and this is coverage of the 1980 Presidential Election on NBC. Tonight we’re expecting a sweep by Senator Bob Dole over former Florida Governor Reubin Askew but anything can happen. Governor Askew could pull a surprise victory and win. We don’t know at this hour how the votes have come out. But we’ve got some poll closings on the East Coast in 30 seconds that could spell out a good night for either campaign. NBC can now project that Senator Dole will carry the state of Georgia.

Georgia for Dole

Brokaw: NBC can also project, with a combination of hard numbers and exit-poll data, that Senator Dole will carry the state of Kentucky, as well as South Carolina.

Kentucky for Dole

South Carolina for Dole

Brokaw: NBC cannot project Indiana, Virginia, or Vermont as it is too early. Too early in Indiana, Virginia, and Vermont. It’s important to note that that call simply means we don’t have enough hard numbers to make a projection at this hour. It does not mean that it is close. Let me bring in Senate-hopeful Jimmy Carter, joining me over the phone from Atlanta. Hello, Mr. Carter.

Jimmy Carter: Hello Tom, thanks for having me.

Brokaw: NBC just projected that Senator Dole would win your state, where you’re also on the ballot. Does this worry you about your chances?

Carter: I’m not worried, no. I think my campaign was stronger in Georgia than Governor Askew’s, I think I connected better with the voters in Georgia than Governor Askew did, I think I’ll be heading to Washington in January.

Brokaw: I’d love to continue with you Mr. Carter but we’ve got a projection to make. NBC News is now projecting that Senator Dole will carry the state of Indiana. We can also project that former Secretary of Energy Jimmy Carter will be heading to Washington, D.C. Jimmy Carter has won his Senate race in Georgia.

Indiana for Dole

Carter Wins Georgia Senate

Brokaw: We’ll be right back after this.

Senate Majority Leader Robert J. Dole/Fmr. CIA Director George H.W. Bush (R) - 42
Fmr. Governor Reubin O. Askew/Senate Minority Leader Walter F. Mondale (D) - 0

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Tom Brokaw: NBC News coverage of the 1980 Election. I’m being told we have a projection, is that right? Ok, I’m being given the projection right now. Vermont will go for Governor Askew, once more that’s Vermont for Askew.

Vermont for Askew

Brokaw: We can also project that Senator Dole will carry the state of Virginia.

Virginia for Dole

Brokaw: We’ve got three more states that closed half-an-hour ago. We’ve got their projections and we’ll put them on the screen.

North Carolina for Dole

Ohio for Dole

West Virginia for Dole

Brokaw: This is looking like a landslide for Senator Bob Dole, as opposed to the crushing loss he suffered four years ago. Pols have just closed in 17 states. It is too close, or too early, to call in the following states: Connecticut, Florida, and Massachusetts. NBC can project the following states.

Alabama for Dole

Delaware for Dole

Illinois for Dole

Maine for Dole

Maryland for Dole

Mississippi for Dole

Missouri for Dole

New Hampshire for Dole

New Jersey for Dole

Oklahoma for Dole

Pennsylvania for Dole

Rhode Island for Askew

Tennessee for Dole

Washington, D.C. for Askew

Brokaw: We’ll back with another round of closings in 5 minutes.

Senate Majority Leader Robert J. Dole/Fmr. CIA Director George H.W. Bush (R) - 225
Fmr. Governor Reubin O. Askew/Senate Minority Leader Walter F. Mondale (D) - 10

[DKrol]

Horray for H W 88! I dont really know about Dole.... I accept it, but I dont like it…… anyways, I hope Reagan at least gets SoS

After his independent run in '76 Reagan alienated himself from the party. However, this time I will provide a list of cabinet officials. You may find Reagan on there.

[DKrol]

Tom Brokaw: And we’ve got more projections coming in fast now. We may be able to call the election this hour.

Arkansas for Dole

Arizona for Dole

Colorado for Dole

Kansas for Dole

Florida for Askew

Massachusetts for Dole

Connecticut for Askew

Louisiana for Dole

Brokaw: NBC News, at 9:13PM, can project that Senate Majority Leader Robert J. Dole will be the 38th President of the United States. With his win in Louisiana Senator - President-Elect - Dole has received 275 Electoral College votes. Bob Dole is the President-Elect of the United States. Now the only question is the margin of his victory.

Michigan for Dole

Minnesota for Dole

Nebraska for Dole

New Mexico for Dole

New York for Dole

South Dakota for Dole

Texas for Dole

Wisconsin for Dole

Wyoming for Dole

Brokaw: Winning Wisconsin has put President-Elect Dole over the 400 Electoral Vote mark. We’re ready to project that...I’m being told that the entire slate of electors from Iowa have announced they will cast their votes for Georgia Senator-elect Jimmy Carter for President and Governor Hugh Carey of New York for Vice President,. Jimmy Carter will received 8 Electoral Votes. We’ve got more projections after this.

Senate Majority Leader Robert J. Dole/Fmr. CIA Director George H.W. Bush (R) - 410
Fmr. Governor Reubin O. Askew/Senate Minority Leader Walter F. Mondale (D) - 35
Senator-elect James E. Carter/Governor Hugh Carey (D) - 8

[DKrol]

Montana for Dole

Nevada for Dole

Utah for Dole

California for Dole

Hawaii for Askew

Idaho for Dole

North Dakota for Dole

Oregon for Dole

Washington for Askew

Alaska for Dole

Tom Brokaw: Those are the final calls of the election of 1980. Here is the final Electoral College map. The Republicans will maintain their majority in the Senate, with 53 seats. The Democrats will have 46 seats and there will be 1 Independent. The Republicans have kept their majority in the House, with  263 seats. The Democrats in the House will have 172 seats. For NBC, I’m Tom Brokaw.

Senate Majority Leader Robert J. Dole/Fmr. CIA Director George H.W. Bush (R) - 482
Fmr. Governor Reubin O. Askew/Senate Minority Leader Walter F. Mondale (D) - 48
Senator-elect James E. Carter/Governor Hugh Carey (D) - 8

[DKrol]

Robert Dole Sworn in As 38th President

AP -- January 20, 1981

  Chief Justice Warren E. Burger administered the Presidential Oath for the second time, this time to Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole of Kansas. Justice John Paul Stevens administered the Oath of Office to now-Vice President George H.W. Bush moments prior. In his Inaugural Address President Dole hit hard on the need for the release of the 66 Americans captured in the American Embassy in Tehran. President Dole, over the cheers of the half-million spectators, said “The Ayatollah will release all 66 of the Americans unharmed or there will be consequences!” A line from the President that received massive applause was “In this present crisis, government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem.” President Doles then went to a luncheon hosted by his former colleagues in the Senate. His Chief of Staff, Former Congressman Dick B. Cheney of Wyoming, has hinted that the President’s first two goals were achieving tax cuts, and getting the Iranian Hostage Crisis resolved.

Cabinet of Robert J. Dole (1981-1985)
Vice President: George H.W. Bush
Secretary of State: Howard H. Baker, Jr.
Secretary of the Treasury: Ronald W. Reagan
Secretary of Defense: John W. Warner
Attorney General: Antonin G. Scalia
Secretary of the Interior: James G. Watt
Secretary of Agriculture: John R. Block
Secretary of Commerce: Malcolm S. Forbes
Secretary of Labor: Raymond J. Donovan (1981-1983) William E. Brock III (1983-)
Secretary of Health and Human Services: Richard J. Schweiker
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Samuel R. Pierce
Secretary of Transportation: Andrew L. Lewis, Jr.
Secretary of Energy: James B. Edwards (1981-1982) Donald P. Hodel (1982-)

Overview of the Robert J. Dole Administration: Pre-Mid-Term
1981
- President Doles survives an assassination attempt as he leaves the Washington Hilton Hotel.
- The Voting Rights Act of 1981 is signed into law
- President Dole appoints Judge Sandra Day O’Connor to the Supreme Court, she is approved 99-1
1982
- The Capital Punishment Act is signed into law, reinstating the death penalty in Federal Courts.
- A report circulates that one of the American hostages in Iran was killed. President Dole addresses the nation from the Oval Office and announces war on Iran

President Dole Shot, Under Surgery

AP -- March 30, 1981

  President Bob Dole, a mere 69 days into his term in office, has been shot. That is the report out of Washington, D.C. today. The President was waving to the crowd as he left the Washington Hilton Hotel when six shots rang out. We’re being told that all six missed the President, directly, but he was hit by one as it ricocheted off the Presidential limousine. We’re also being told that the ricocheted bullet lodged itself just above his right lung, possibly collapsing the lung. He is undergoing surgery to remove the bullet and stem the bleeding at George Washington University Hospital. White House Chief of Staff Richard B. Cheney was also shot and has passed away. First Lady Elizabeth Dole is flying from a speaking engagement in North Carolina to Washington, and Vice President George H.W. Bush is flying back from a state visit to Belgium as this is being printed. There has been a report that the Cabinet is considering invoking the 25th Amendment and transferring the authority of the Presidency to Vice President Bush, but Secretary of State Howard Baker has said that “that is truly false. We believe that President Dole will recover and that he is capable to lead the nation.”

President Dole Addresses Nation, Announces War on Iran

AP -- July 1, 1982

President Bob Dole addressed the nation today, the first time for his presidency. His speech was as follows: “My fellow Americans, nearly four years ago Iranian revolutionaries overtook the American embassy in Tehran. The State Department has confirmed to me the unthinkable has happened. One of the 66 hostages has been killed. An American, a young man, has been killed at the hands of Iranian rebels on foreign soil. I have asked the Congress to approve military action in Iran in response to this terrible act, and the Congress gave me such authorization a few hours ago. I am addressing the nation tonight, the first of July, as American and Coalition Forces are beginning attacks on Iran. On my orders attacks have begun on select targets, targets that we feel will severely limit the ability Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to dictate over his nation, hold our citizens captive, and terrorize the world. More than 20 countries are supplying their crucial support in this war. The war will continue until the remaining 65 Americans are released, the body of the deceased is returned home to his family, and Ayatollah Khomeini is removed from power. No solution will be accepted other than victory. Thank you, and God Bless the United States of America.” A poll taken hours after the speech showed that 61% of Americans support the war, 28% do not, and 11% are unsure or how no opinion.

[DKrol]

Republicans Maintain Senate, Lose House
Senate Composition: 55 Republicans, 44 Democrats, 1 Independent
Senate Leadership: Majority Leader: Ted Stevens (R-AK) Majority Whip: Dan Quayle (R-IN) Minority Leader: Walter Mondale (D-MN) Minority Whip: Alan Cranston (D-CA)
House Composition: 262 Democrats, 173 Republicans
House Leadership: Speaker: Tip O’Neill (D-MA-8) Majority Leader: Tom Foley (D-WA-5) Majority Whip: Charles Schumer (D-NY-16) Minority Leader: Trent Lott (R-MS-5) Minority Whip: Jack Kemp (R-NY-38)

Overview of the Robert J. Dole Administration: Post-Mid-Term
1983
- The War in Iran continues. The Ayatollah is in hiding, most of Iran is burning, and the hostages are still hostages.
- The Economic Future Act is signed, creating tax cuts for small businesses and students.
- Unemployment falls to 5.3%
1984
- President Dole announces he’s seeking a second term at a White House Press Conference.

Ayatollah In Hiding, War Viewed As Successful

AP -- March 5, 1983

The War in Iran is being declared a success by White House Aides, Commentators, and citizens alike. Ayatollah Khomeini has not been seen in public since military operations began and there have been very few American deaths, some estimates put it as low as 300. The hostages have not been released yet, and reports indicate they are no longer being held in the embassy. Finding the Americans may be difficult, but President Dole has assured the nation that he will not withdraw our troops “until each and every American is back with his or her family.” A poll, taken on the 25th of February, shows that 56% of Americans view the war favorably.

Unemployment Falls to 5.3%

AP -- June 3, 1983

For the first time since the early days of Richard Nixon’s administration unemployment is down to 5.3%. This is attributed to the spur in economic activity caused by the tax-cuts of the Economic Future Act and “Dolanomics” - as President Dole’s economic policy is being called. The economy is recovering from the recession of the late 1970s and President Dole is being given most of the credit.

President Dole Running for Re-Election, Governor Kennedy, Reverend Jackson, Senators Biden, Hart, Holling Running

AP -- December 20, 1983

At a Press Conference from the White House President Bob J. Dole announced he would be seeking a second term as President. The President began his remarks by saying “We are in the middle of war, and I believe, I know, that continuous leadership is needed during a war.” He is going to be unchallenged from within the Republican Party. On the Democratic side, former Massachusetts Governor Edward M. “Ted” Kennedy has announced he running to succeed his two brothers. The Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. of South Carolina has also launched a presidential campaign, as had Delaware Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Also running is Colorado Senator Gary Hart and South Carolina Senator Ernest F. "Fritz" Hollings. Early polls show a slight lead for Senator Biden, followed by Senator Hart, Governor Kennedy, Reverend Jackson, and Senator Hollings. The Kennedy name is still toxic in some circles, and that is turning out to hurt the former Bay State Governor.

[DKrol]

I cant believe with TWO Kennedys, we havent gone into space

We went to the moon during RFK's term.

From: Overview of the Robert F. Kennedy Administration

1973:
-- The Apollo 13 mission successfully puts man on the moon, Fred W. Haise becomes the the first human to step foot on the moon.

[DKrol]

1984 Primary Contests

Republicans


President Robert J. “Bob” Dole of Kansas

Democrats


Former Governor Edward M. “Ted” Kennedy of Massachusetts


Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. of South Carolina


Senator Joseph R. “Joe” Biden, Jr. of Delaware


Senator Ernest F. “Fritz” Hollings of South Carolina


Senator Gary W. Hart of Colorado

January 10 Polls:

1984 Republican Presidential Primary:
B. Dole: 97%
Other: 3%

1984 Democratic Presidential Primary:
J. Biden: 23%
G. Hart: 23%
T. Kennedy: 20%
J. Jackson: 18%
E. Hollings: 16%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 55%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr./Walter F. Mondale: 45%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 59%
Gary W. Hart/Lloyd M. Bentsen, Jr.: 41%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 53%
Edward M. Kennedy/Morris K. Udall: 47%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 58%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr./Geraldine A. Ferraro: 42%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 56%
Ernest F. Hollings/George S. McGovern: 44%

*All Polls have a margin of error of 5%

President Dole Still Looking For Challenge

AP -- January 21, 1984

  It looks like President Bob Dole is heading towards another landslide victory this November. His closest challenger is former Massachusetts Governor Ted Kennedy, but the President still has a 6-point lead. It also doesn’t look like Governor Kennedy will be the nominee, he is currently polling in 3rd between the declared 5 candidates. The Democratic front-runner, Delaware Senator Joe Biden is currently trailing the President by 10-points. President Dole, currently in Iraq to meet with troops stationed there before deployment to Iran, has begun working the channels and the grassroots campaigns that launched him to victory four years ago.

[DKrol]

Iowa Caucus

Democrats
Gary W. Hart: 34%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 32%
Edward M. Kennedy: 16%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 10%
Ernest F. Hollings: 8%

New Hampshire Primary

Democrats
Edward M. Kennedy: 28%
Gary W. Hart: 21%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 20%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 18%
Ernest F. Hollings: 13%

Vermont Primary

Democrats
Edward M. Kennedy: 30%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 27%
Gary W. Hart: 25%
Ernest F. Hollings: 9%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 9%

Wyoming Primary

Democrats
Gary W. Hart: 42%
Ernest F. Hollings: 20%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 13%
Edward M. Kennedy: 13%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 12%

Alabama Primary

Democrats
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 26%
Ernest F. Hollings: 25%
Gary W. Hart: 20%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 15%
Edward M. Kennedy: 13%

Florida Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 31%
Gary W. Hart: 28%
Edward M. Kennedy: 27%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 9%
Ernest F. Hollings: 5%

Georgia Primary

Democrats
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 26%
Ernest F. Hollings: 20%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 20%
Gary W. Hart: 18%
Edward M. Kennedy: 16%

Massachusetts Primary

Democrats
Edward M. Kennedy: 63%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 12%
Gary W. Hart: 11%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 7%
Ernest F. Hollings: 7%

Rhode Island Primary

Democrats
Edward M. Kennedy: 52%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 17%
Gary W. Hart: 15%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 12%
Ernest F. Hollings: 4%

Democratic Primary Map, As of March 13, 1984

Former Governor Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts
Senator Gary W. Hart of Colorado
Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr. of Delaware
Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. of South Carolina
Senator Ernest F. Hollings of South Carolina

[DKrol]

Senator Fritz Hollings of South Carolina Suspends Campaign, Endorses Senator Hart
AP -- March 14, 1984

Undecided Democrats

AP -- March 15, 1984

  There is not a clear front-runner in the Democratic Primary, so far. Former Governor Ted Kennedy is doing better than expected, but is failing to extend his appeal out of New England. Senator Gary Hart is doing about as well as he was expected to do, and Senator Joe Biden is floundering, winning only Florida. Reverend Jesse Jackson is doing much better than expected, winning two Southern states over Senator Fritz Hollings, who has since suspended his campaign. Senator Jimmy Carter has stayed quiet on the race, focusing on his Senate career.

March 15 Polls:

1984 Republican Presidential Primary:
B. Dole: 98%
Other: 2%

1984 Democratic Presidential Primary:
G. Hart: 27%
J. Biden: 27%
T. Kennedy: 25%
J. Jackson: 21%


1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 54%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr./Walter F. Mondale: 46%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 55%
Gary W. Hart/Lloyd M. Bentsen, Jr.: 45%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 52%
Edward M. Kennedy/Morris K. Udall: 48%

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 58%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr./Geraldine A. Ferraro: 42%

*All Polls have a margin of error of 5%

Michigan Primary

Democrats
Gary W. Hart: 35%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 22%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 22%
Edward M. Kennedy: 21%

Puerto Rico Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 52%
Edward M. Kennedy: 23%
Gary W. Hart: 14%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 11%

Illinois Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 35%
Edward M. Kennedy: 24%
Gary W. Hart: 23%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 18%

Connecticut Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 29%
Edward M. Kennedy: 28%
Gary W. Hart: 26%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 17%

Senator Jimmy Carter of Georgia Endorses Senator Gary Hart
AP -- April 1, 1984

New York Primary

Democrats
Edward M. Kennedy: 47%
Gary W. Hart: 33%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 13%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 7%

Wisconsin Primary

Democrats
Gary W. Hart: 31%
Edward M. Kennedy: 26%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 24%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 19%

Pennsylvania Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 47%
Gary W. Hart: 32%
Edward M. Kennedy: 14%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 7%

D.C. Primary

Democrats
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 49%
Gary W. Hart: 20%
Edward M. Kennedy: 16%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 15%

Tennesee Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 36%
Gary W. Hart: 34%
Edward M. Kennedy: 17%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 13%

Louisiana Primary

Democrats
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 41%
Gary W. Hart: 35%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 13%
Edward M. Kennedy: 11%

Former Governor Ted Kennedy Suspends Campaign, Endorses Senator Biden
May 7, 1984

Democratic Primary Map, as of May 5, 1984

Senator Gary W. Hart of Colorado
Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr. of Delaware
Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. of South Carolina
Former Governor Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts
Senator Ernest F. Hollings of South Carolina

[DKrol]

Indiana Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 53%
Gary W. Hart: 31%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 16%

Maryland Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 50%
Gary W. Hart: 27%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 23%

North Carolina Primary

Democrats
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 51%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 49%
Gary W. Hart: 0% (Not on the ballot)

Ohio Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 53%
Gary W. Hart: 31%
Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: 16%

Reverend Jackson suspends campaign, endorses Senator Biden
AP -- May 10, 1984

Biden: The Front-Runner

AP -- May 11, 1984

  Senator Joe Biden of Delaware, once considered an “also ran”, has cemented his status as the front-runner, following the departure of former Massachusetts Governor Ted Kennedy and Reverend Jesse Jackson. Senator Gary Hart is putting up a strong showing in the West and the Industrial states, but Senator Biden’s win in Ohio really knocked the wind out of Senator Hart’s lungs. An aid to the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee said that the party is slowly accepting the 42-year-old as the presumptive nominee. A source inside the White House said that President Dole “is not worried” about facing the Senator.

Idaho Primary

Democrats
Gary W. Hart: 52%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 48%

Nebraska Primary

Democrats
Gary W. Hart: 54%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 46%

Oregon Primary

Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 51%
Gary W. Hart: 49%

California Primary
Democrats
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.: 56%
Gary W. Hart: 44%

Senator Gary Hart Suspends Campaign, Endorses Senator Biden

AP -- June 6, 1984

  Colorado Senator Gary W. Hart suspended his campaign for President today and endorsed Delaware Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr. after it became clear that Biden clinched the nomination with a win in big win in California. Hart pledged his full support to Senator Biden, and hinted that he’d like to be nominated as Vice President on the Democratic Ticket. Senator Biden, speaking at a rally in Miami, Florida, thanked everyone voted for him and spoke about an era of change that is “crashing down like a wave on the beach.”

b]June 7 Polls[/b]

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 53%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr./Walter F. Mondale: 47%

[DKrol]

Biden, Koch Nominated in San Francisco

AP -- July 19, 1984
 
  The youth of Senator Joe Biden, 42, is being balanced on the Democratic ticket by Vice Presidential nominee Ed Koch, 60. At the Democratic Convention in San Francisco Delaware Senator Biden announced the New York City as his running mate. The pair are being billed as “Sensible Progressives”, but Mayor Koch may be a drag on the ticket. Questions have risen around the Mayor’s sexuality and his poor handling of the AIDS Crisis. Many had speculated that Senator Biden would tap Senator Jimmy Carter for the VP-spot, which would have gave a  boost to the ticket.

Dole, Bush Re-Nominated in Dallas

AP -- August 23, 1984

  With no challenge in the Primary, President Bob Dole was re-nominated in Dallas this evening. His speech hit hard on his ability to turn around the failing economy that he inherited, as well as pointing out that he is “the strongest, most able person” to lead the country during the War in Iran. Vice President George H.W. Bush was right at home in his home state, and was joined by his sons, George W. and Jeb. George is being hinted at as a candidate for the Governor’s seat in Texas in 1990. The Vice President’s speech fired up the crowd, as he promised the Ayatollah would fall and all 65 Americans would be brought home. If the Republicans keep the White House in November, Bush is looking like the de facto nominee in 1988.

August 30 Polls

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 54%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr./Edward I. Koch: 46%

[DKrol]

Debate Lacks Clear Winner, Biden Unsure, Dole Tired

AP -- October 13, 1984

  President Bob Dole and Senator Joe Biden met in Louisville, Kentucky for the first and only Presidential debate in 1984. There was not a clear winner from the debate, both candidates had their highs and lows. Senator Biden, discussing the War in Iran, repeated himself and talked in circles.  Many analysts said that Senator Biden came off as unsure of himself. President Dole came off as boring and tired, perhaps the effects of the Oval Office showing on the 61 year old President. A poll taken immediately after the debate showed that 21% of voters thought President Dole won the debate, while 20% thought Senator Biden won the debate, and 59% thought neither candidate won.

12 Hostages Found, Returned Home

AP -- October 21, 1984

In a joyous event 12 American citizens were liberated from their Iranian kidnappers by Task Force 121, an elite multi-service special operations unit. The Americans were found in a heavily armed compound 3 miles outside of Tehran. After a 4 hours fire fight Task Force 121 evacuated the Americans, 12 of 65 Hostages, and airlifted them to Iraq. From Iraq they were flown to London for a medical evaluation. Once cleared of any serious illnesses they were flown on, to New York City and then sent to their respective homes. President Bob Dole suspended his campaign for the day and traveled to New York to welcome the Americans homes. This has proved to be a massive surge for the President in the polls, restoring confidence in his leadership.

October 22 Polls

1984 Presidential Election:
Robert J. Dole/George H.W. Bush: 59%
Joseph R. Biden, Jr./Edward I. Koch: 41%

Electoral College Map, based on recent polls

President Robert J. Dole/Vice President George H.W. Bush (R) - 383
Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr./Mayor Edward I. Koch (D) - 90
Toss Up - 65

[DKrol]

Election Night - 1984[/b]


Dan Rather: Hello and welcome to the continuing coverage of Campaign ‘84 on CBS. I’m Dan Rather and as we prepare for poll closings in 9 states, it looks like President Bob Dole will win in a land-slide, larger than his margin in 1980. That’s just based on polling data, no hard numbers have come in yet. An as the clock hits 7pm polls have closed in 9 states. CBS can now project that President Dole will carry the following states: Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, South Carolina, Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia. In the state of Vermont it is too early to call.

Georgia for Dole

Indiana for Dole

Kentucky for Dole

South Carolina for Dole

Virginia for Dole

North Carolina for Dole

West Virginia for Dole

Too Early to Call in Vermont

President Robert J. Dole/Vice President George H.W. Bush (R) - 95
Senator Joseph R. Biden/Mayor Edward I. Koch (D) - 0

Rather: At this early hour President Dole has 95 Electoral College votes. Senator Biden has none and 3 electoral votes cannot be called at this time. We’ll be back at the top of the hour with more poll closings.

“No one thought Biden would win it. He was a sacrificial lamb, and the return of the hostages cemented that as a fact.” - former Massachusetts Governor Ted Kennedy, reflecting on the Election of 1984 in his memoir “True Compass” in 2009

[DKrol]

Dan Rather: We’ve got a slew of poll closings this hour, 178 Electoral Votes up for grabs. The hard numbers are coming in fast. CBS can project the following states for President Dole: Alabama, Florida, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. Senator Biden will carry his home state of Delaware, as well as Rhode Island, Washington, D.C. and Massachusetts. The states of Connecticut, Maryland, Illinois, and Pennsylvania are either too early to call, or too close to call. Vermont is still too early to call. We’ll put them up on the screen now.

Alabama for Dole

Too Early to Call Connecticut

Florida for Dole

Delaware for Biden

Too Close to Call in Illinois

Maine for Dole

Massachusetts for Biden

Too Close to Call in Maryland

Mississippi for Dole

Missouri for Dole

New Hampshire for Dole

New Jersey for Dole

Oklahoma for Dole

Too Close to Call in Pennsylvania

Rhode Island for Biden

Tennessee for Dole

Washington, D.C. for Biden

Arkansas for Dole

Rather: And here’s the Electoral Map at this hour. President Dole has a strong lead, it looks like it will be hard for Senator Biden to win now, but it is still possible. We’ll be back with more.

President Robert J. Dole/Vice President George H.W. Bush (R) - 192
Senator Joseph R. Biden/Mayor Edward I. Koch (D) - 23