Timeline: 1996 election season with some changes, beyond

[dudeabides]

January 8, 1995 - Dole says no to presidential bid

Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole announced he would not seek the nomination of his party for President in the 1996 election.

GOP Presidential Candidates as of March 20, 1995

Businessman Morry Taylor


Senator Phil Gramm of Texas


Former Vice President Dan Quayle


Former Governor Tom Kean of New Jersey


Social Conservative Activist Gary Bauer


Billionaire Steve Forbes


Senator John McCain of Arizona


Businessman Mitt Romney



April 2, 1995 - Bill Bradley announces Clinton primary challenge

Senator Bill Bradley of New Jersey declared his intention to challenge President Bill Clinton in the 1996 democratic presidential primary, arguing Clinton was too conservative for democratic voters on health care, gun control, and welfare.

[dudeabides]

April 8, 1995 - Quayle, Graham lead in '96 GOP survey

GOP National Election
Phil Gramm 30%
Dan Quayle 29%
Morry Taylor 16%
Tom Kean 12%
John McCain 6%
Steve Forbes 3%
Mitt Romney 2%
Gary Bauer 1%
Other 1%

April 9, 1995 - Gramm gives speech contrasting himself with Quayle, Clinton

Senator Phil Gramm of Texas gave a speech in Iowa in which he proposed his agenda and contrasted himself with President Bill Clinton and GOP Primary opponent Dan Quayle. Proposing eliminating the income tax and capital gains taxes in favor of a 20% consumption tax, a balanced budget constitutional amendment, and an overhaul of the federal department of education, Gramm attacked President Clinton's opposition to school choice, his 1993 tax increases, and his support for what Gramm called "government-run health care." Gramm also attacked Dan Quayle for his role in the budget deal which increased taxes under President George H.W. Bush.

May 1, 1995 - In CNN interview, Bradley outlines his primary run against Clinton

In an interview with CNN, Senator Bill Bradley of New Jersey discussed why he decided to challenge President Clinton in the 1996 democratic primary when Clinton's approval amongst democrats was roughly 96%. "I think the democratic party can do better. I've proposed universal health care, President Clinton gave up on that. I think we need to not only ban assault weapons, but we also need to close the gun show loophole. We need to recognize that gays and lesbians should not have to hide their sexuality when serving in uniform. We need to work with the republicans on tax reform. These are just a few of the issues which bring me into this race" Bradley stated.

June 15, 1995 - Quayle calls for tax reform, increased defense spending

Former Vice President and GOP presidential candidate Dan Quayle stated that if elected President, he would pursue tax reductions and increases in the defense budget as top national priorities. Quayle's 20% across the board income tax reduction, his elimination of the capital gains tax, and his 18% reduction in corporate taxes would cost roughly $600 billion over a decade. Quayle also called for the closing of corporate loopholes. In addition, Quayle criticized the Clinton administration for cutting the defense budget, and proposed $80 billion more annually for defense.

July 1, 1995 - Alan Keyes enters presidential race

Calling for a pro-life constitutional amendment, a ban on gays in the military, and the elimination of the federal income tax, Former Diplomat Alan Keyes entered the presidential race with harsh words for his opponent. He called Dan Quayle "a failure as a leader who probably cost us the 1992 election." He referred to Phil Gramm as "a Washington insider and convert to the GOP, he is only republican and for republican ideas because it helped him win elections." Keyes called President Clinton a "moral traitor to all that is good and decent about America."

July 27, 1995 - Gov. George W. Bush backs Dan Quayle for President, signs on as campaign co-chair

Governor George W. Bush of Texas endorsed Former Vice President Dan Quayle for the GOP presidential nomination. Bush stated that Quayle was the most electable candidate, and he trusted his judgement most.

August 5, 1995 - Clinton beating Bradley by 40 points in poll

Bill Clinton 70%
Bill Bradley 30%

August 14, 1995 - Morry Taylor says he contrasts with Clinton most

GOP Presidential Hopeful Morry Taylor gave a speech in Iowa in which he stated he contrasted the most with President Clinton of all the GOP presidential candidates. Taylor stated that while a majority of his opponents supported NAFTA, he opposed the North American Free Trade Agreement. He also stated that his opponents failed to put forth a plan to balance the federal budget, but that he proposed cutting government by 33% over 15 months, which would lead to a balanced budget in 18 months. The businessman also said that his tax plan was the most realistic; it cut the corporate tax rate to 18%, had two tax brackets on income; 7% and 33%, and his plan would restore all the tax rates in place when Bill Clinton took office in 1993.

August 23, 1995 - Morry Taylor narrowly beats Dan Quayle in Ames, IA straw poll

Morry Taylor 1,997
Dan Quayle 1,803
Phil Gramm 789
Tom Kean 452
John McCain 202
Gary Bauer 101
Alan Keyes 97
Steve Forbes 55
Mitt Romney 41
Other 22

August 27, 1995 - Kean proposes balanced budget, reforms to medicare & social security, cracking down on crime

During a speech in New Hampshire, Former Governor Tom Kean of New Jersey, seeking the 1996 GOP presidential nomination, spoke about his proposed plan to balance the budget by raising the retirement age for social security while slowing growth for the program. Kean also proposed block-granting medicare back to states, and creating tax incentives for businesses to create a retirement health care plan for employees. Kean also proposed adding 70,000 more police officers to American streets and implementing tougher penalties for all federal crimes.

[Jerseyrules]

This looks awesome, but I don't see Romney jumping in.  He has little name recognition outside MA; maybe he wins his bid for senate in 94; even then I don't see him running yet.  Maybe as VP though.  (And please make Weld knock Kerry off in 96; if we had Romney and Weld then MA would have two GOP senators for the first time in nearly a century )

Awesome stuff keep it up

[dudeabides]

This looks awesome, but I don't see Romney jumping in.  He has little name recognition outside MA; maybe he wins his bid for senate in 94; even then I don't see him running yet.  Maybe as VP though.  (And please make Weld knock Kerry off in 96; if we had Romney and Weld then MA would have two GOP senators for the first time in nearly a century )

Awesome stuff keep it up

Thank You for your kind words and input!

Just for clarification, Romney entered the race sort of like Cain did, as a relative unknown outside of running for senate in Georgia. Romney is running as the wall street type, Morry Taylor as the manufacturer businessman.

[dudeabides]

September 1, 1995 - Mayor Rudy Giuliani backs John McCain for President

Mayor Rudy Giuliani, a well-known moderate republican nationally, endorsed the presidential campaign of Senator John McCain. "Senator McCain is the most experienced candidate, and the only one who will work across the aisle to get results" Giuliani said of the Arizonian seeking the presidency.

September 5, 1995 - Quayle: welfare reform my top priority in first 100 days

GOP Presidential Candidate and Former Vice President Dan Quayle stated that welfare reform would be his top priority during his first 100 days as President. "The Clinton administration has allowed for the expansion of welfare, I'll make reforming welfare the top issue of my first 100 days as President" Quayle stated.

September 8, 1995 - Poll: Clinton approval at 57%, GOP has hill to climb in '96


President Clinton approval
Approve 57%
Disapprove 30%
Neutral 13%

General Election Match Ups

Bill Clinton 47%
Dan Quayle 40%

Bill Clinton 46%
Phil Gramm 44%

Bill Clinton 48%
Morry Taylor 43%

Bill Clinton 46%
Tom Kean 46%

John McCain 47%
Bill Clinton 45%

GOP Nomination Nationally
Phil Gramm 30%
Dan Quayle 25%
Tom Kean 18%
Morry Taylor 10%
John McCain 7%
Mitt Romney 3%
Steve Forbes 2%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 3%

Democratic Nomination National Poll
Bill Clinton 66%
Bill Bradley 30%
Other 4%

September 15, 1995 - Bob Kerrey backs Bill Bradley for President

Senator Bob Kerrey of Nebraska endorsed fellow Senator Bill Bradley of New Jersey for President. "To be frank, I don't always agree with Bill Bradley. But I know he'll fight for tax reform, for the American farmer, to expand health care access for children, and for veterans health care. Bill Bradley is an honest man, a friend of mine. Bill Clinton has lied and played politics for the past 3 years, and I'm tired of it. We need a President who we know where he or she stands, and Bill Bradley will be that President" Kerrey stated.

September 18, 1995 - Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole endorses Dan Quayle for President

Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole endorsed Dan Quayle for President, calling Quayle "part of a new generation of republican leaders who will fight for American values, a balanced budget, conservative judges, and a safer America."

September 21, 1995 - Morry Taylor: Clinton's economy hurting manufacturing; repeal NAFTA, cut taxes, and eliminate the EPA

GOP Presidential Hopeful Morry Taylor attacked President Bill Clinton's record on the economy. "They claim we are creating jobs. For those in higher paying sectors, that is true. But ordinary Americans on farms and in factories are hurting. We need to first of all repeal NAFTA, which Dan Quayle and Phil Gramm supported. We then need to cut taxes on businesses; I've proposed a lower, 18% tax rate on business in America. We then need to eliminate the Environmental Protection Agency which is leading us to lose jobs. We need to encourage growth in the private sector; you do so by cutting taxes and balancing the budget, and putting worker's first, not politics in Washington" Taylor stated.

September 23, 1995 - McCain, Bradley to campaign heavily in New Hampshire

Presidential underdogs Bill Bradley (D) and John McCain (R) both shifted their strategies from a national one, to one focused heavily on winning the New Hampshire Primary. Bradley, seeking to run to the left of President Clinton on social issues but as more right-wing on economic issues, felt New Hampshire voters would be willing to consider his message. McCain, running on a platform to increase defense spending while balancing the budget and reforming entitlement programs, felt New Hampshire independents would be key to his securing a victory due to his positions on secondary issues such as the environment and immigration.

October 1, 1995 - Former President George H.W. Bush formally endorses Dan Quayle for President

At an event in South Carolina, Former President George H.W. Bush endorsed Dan Quayle for the 1996 GOP presidential nomination. "Dan Quayle is a person of conviction, character, and sound judgement. The best decision I made was picking him to be Vice President of the United States" Bush said of Quayle.

October 5, 1995 - Former HUD Secretary & Congressman Jack Kemp backs Gramm in '96 presidential bid

Former HUD Secretary Jack Kemp, considered one of the founders of supply-side economics, endorsed Phil Gramm for President. "Phil Gramm led the fight for the Reagan tax cuts and the policies which added 16 million jobs. As a candidate for President, Phil Gramm represents sound economic policies, and he knows how to lead" Kemp said during his endorsement of Gramm.

October 8, 1995 - Tommy Thompson backs Tom Kean

Governor Tommy Thompson, a popular republican in a democratic state, endorsed Tom Kean for President. "Tom Kean saved New Jersey. Now, it's his time to save America from expanding it's welfare state and gutting our military" Thompson said of Kean.

October 10, 1995 - President Clinton launches re-election campaign, bashes Quayle and Gramm

President Bill Clinton launched his re-election campaign from Little Rock, Arkansas. "Over the past 4 years, we've cut taxes on working families, cut the deficit in half, added 12 million new jobs, and we've made investments in our people again. In a second term, we'll continue these policies, and we'll fight to expand health care access, put the internet in our schools, cut taxes on small business, and invest in our infrastructure. Vice President Quayle and Senator Gramm have a very different vision of the next 4 years. They believe that by cutting taxes on the wealthy and appointing activist judges, our country will prosper and somehow, our values will improve. Gentlemen, there is nothing wrong with America's values!".

October 14, 1995 - Romney proposes eliminating taxes on capital gains for the middle class

At an event in New Hampshire, GOP Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney proposed eliminating the capital gains tax on those making under $200,000 per year in order to help encourage investment in the American economy.

October 17, 1995 - Whitman backs Forbes over Former Governor Kean

Governor Christie Todd Whitman of New Jersey endorsed Billionaire Steve Forbes, who helped her craft her New Jersey tax plan, for the GOP Presidential Nomination. "Steve Forbes played a role in delivering tax relief and fiscal discipline to the people of New Jersey. I know that he would make a fantastic President."

[Niemeyerite]

With high approvals, Clinton would be getting 90% of the vote among democrats, no just 66% against a random senator, I believe.

[dudeabides]

With high approvals, Clinton would be getting 90% of the vote among democrats, no just 66% against a random senator, I believe.

We shall see what happens though lol but thank you for the feedback, always appreciated.

[Maxwell]

Morry Taylor in 3rd place! This is terrific!

[dudeabides]

Morry Taylor in 3rd place! This is terrific!

Indeed!

October 21, 1995 - GOP candidates debate issues, asked to define themselves


Moderator: Gentleman, can you please define what makes you unique here amongst your GOP opponents and how you plan on beating President Clinton?

Gramm: I'm a fighter. I fought for the Reagan tax cuts, the largest in U.S. history. I led the fight against Bill Clinton's health care plan.  I fought alongside Newt Gingrich to balance the budget without raising taxes. I have put forth a plan which would reduce taxes, reduce regulations, balance the budget, and reform welfare. Vice President Quayle had his chance to make a difference. While I was leading the fight to cut spending, he helped lead the charge to raise taxes. We tried his way, and our economy went into recession. When we did it my way, we added 16 million jobs. As the nominee of our party, my message of lower taxes, balanced budgets, limited government, and welfare reform will prevail because Americans want a President who will actually balance the budget, not just talk about it.

Quayle: I believe republicans need a nominee to challenge Bill Clinton who is committed to our values of lower taxes, balanced budgets, the pro-life position, welfare reform, tough penalties against criminals, educational choice, and marriage and family. Our nominee must also have the experience to lead, I have the broadest array of experience of any candidate up here. I've not only led on economic policy, I've led on foreign policy. My experience will enable me to rally Americans to the republican banner. Senator Gramm and I do have some differences. I've always been a republican, he changed parties for political expediency. I voted for Ronald Reagan in 1980, he voted for Jimmy Carter in 1980. Americans are looking for an experienced and steady leader, someone who can make decisions. I feel I'm the best qualified candidate for 1996.

Taylor: Phil Gramm, Dan Quayle, and Bill Clinton all support NAFTA, all have spent their careers in politics, and all talk about balancing the budget, but have never done it. I've balanced budgets and cut expenses without hurting wage workers in the business world. As President, I'm going to cut the bureaucracy from the top by a third. I'm going to fight to reduce taxes on all Americans, and on business. I'm going to repeal NAFTA to bring manufacturing back to America. The choice between Bill Clinton and I is between a slick politician who tells you what you want to here, and a businessman who tells it like it is.

McCain: The crusade I'm on is for reform. I believe we need to repeal President Clinton's cuts to our defense, and impose a foreign policy in which we engage the international community as opposed to this more isolationist approach the administration has pursued. In addition, my pledge to reform social security and medicare by stopping the politicians from raiding those programs is in stark contrast to that of some of my republican opponents, as well as President Clinton. I've also pledged to balance the federal budget, and we'll do it during my first term. As republicans, we need a nominee who will put forth an agenda all Americans can rally behind, and I feel my reform agenda does just that.

Kean: In New Jersey, a liberal state, I managed to exercise fiscal discipline. I believe in balanced budgets, and I don't believe in higher taxes on Americans. We also face new challenges in America. Violent crime and drug use needs to be combated, so as President I'll fight to add police officers to our streets and increase penalties for violent offenders. Unlike President Clinton, I'm someone who believes in investing in our military to keep Americans safe. I'll also reduce taxes like everyone else here, the difference is I have promised that my tax cuts are paid for. So, this is really about putting forth a plan to get things done and contrasting with President Clinton, I'm the candidate who can unite our party and America behind an agenda based on proven principles and values.

Keyes: I've proposed eliminating the income tax, instituting a pro-life constitutional amendment, balancing the budget by reducing federal spending across the board by 8%, securing our border, and taking on violence in movies. The other candidates in this race can not beat Bill Clinton because they are similar to him in one way or another. Vice President Quayle, like Clinton, stated along with George Bush they wouldn't raise taxes. They did. Senator Gramm is part of the Washington establishment, and supports keeping the unconstitutional income tax in place. We need a nominee to take on Bill Clinton, the most left-wing and corrupt President in the history of our republic, and only a conservative who understands the constitution and our values can win, I am that candidate.

Bauer: My motivation for entering this race was that I see America in a moral decay. Our children are being educated in part by secular text books which seek to ignore the word of God. We have violent video games which send the wrong message to many. We have books which are offensive. Our society needs to look to stop this moral decay. At the same time, too many hard working Americans are working harder for less. That's why I've proposed a 12% flat tax that is lower than the 15% proposed by Steve Forbes. If we want to beat Bill Clinton, we have to do so by talking about our values.

Forbes: Phil Gramm and Dan Quayle can talk all they want, but they have spent their entire lives in Washington D.C. being part of the bureaucracy. For 4 years, we've had a President who has expanded the role of government while raising taxes, he's also part of the bureaucracy. I come from the business world, I understand the issues America faces. I've proposed a flat tax, school choice, and the repeal of the assault weapons ban President Clinton signed into law. Of all the candidates, I'm the one who has the ideas that will enable us to win.

Romney: In the business world, my job has been helping companies grow. I want to help America grow. By cutting taxes, expanding free trade, and investing in better schools, America's economy will grow. What we don't need in Washington is more politicians who engage in finger pointing and negative campaigning. What we need is a businessman who knows how to create jobs, and I know how to create jobs because I've seen them come and ago. President Clinton does not have that experience.

November 10, 1995 - Huckabee backs Taylor for President

Governor Mike Huckabee of Arkansas backed Businessman Morry Taylor for President in 1996. "Morry Taylor understands that by reducing taxes and having fair trade laws, we can create jobs in America again" Huckabee said of Taylor.

November 27, 1995 - Gephardt officially backs President Clinton

House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt of Missouri officially backed President Bill Clinton's re-election campaign. "President Clinton is committed to the working families of this country. Our economy has added 12 million new jobs and our citizens are finding it easier to find work" Gephardt said in his endorsement announcement.

December 10, 1995 - Poll: Tight GOP national race; Taylor & McCain surging in early states

GOP National Poll
Phil Gramm 28%
Dan Quayle 26%
Morry Taylor 19%
John McCain 12%
Tom Kean 6%
Steve Forbes 4%
Mitt Romney 2%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

GOP Iowa Poll
Morry Taylor 24%
Dan Quayle 24%
Phil Gramm 20%
Steve Forbes 12%
Tom Kean 8%
Mitt Romney 4%
John McCain 3%
Gary Bauer 3%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

GOP New Hampshire Poll
Phil Gramm 33%
John McCain 29%
Tom Kean 15%
Dan Quayle 12%
Morry Taylor 5%
Mitt Romney 3%
Steve Forbes 1%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 0%

GOP Delaware Poll
Tom Kean 30%
Phil Gramm 30%
Dan Quayle 14%
John McCain 12%
Morry Taylor 6%
Steve Forbes 4%
Mitt Romney 1%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

GOP Louisiana
Phil Gramm 31%
Dan Quayle 30%
Morry Taylor 20%
John McCain 9%
Tom Kean 4%
Mitt Romney 2%
Steve Forbes 1%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

GOP South Carolina
Phil Gramm 40%
Dan Quayle 25%
Morry Taylor 12%
John McCain 8%
Tom Kean 6%
Steve Forbes 4%
Mitt Romney 2%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 0%

[dudeabides]

Primary Season

Iowa GOP Caucus

Dan Quayle 31%
Morry Taylor 29%
Phil Gramm 17%
Tom Kean 12%
Steve Forbes 4%
Mitt Romney 3%
John McCain 1%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

Iowa Democratic Caucus

Bill Clinton 72%
Bill Bradley 26%
Other 2%

Louisiana GOP Caucus

Phil Gramm 39%
Dan Quayle 30%
Morry Taylor 20%
John McCain 4%
Tom Kean 3%
Mitt Romney 1%
Steve Forbes 1%
Gary Bauer 1%
Alan Keyes 0.5%
Other 0.5%

Louisiana Democratic Caucus

Bill Clinton 77%
Bill Bradley 22%
Other 1%

Following Iowa & Louisiana, Bauer & Romney exit presidential race

GOP Presidential Hopefuls Mitt Romney & Gary Bauer exited the presidential race after poor showings in caucuses in Iowa and Louisiana.

New Hampshire Primary

GOP

John McCain 33%
Phil Gramm 21%
Dan Quayle 20%
Morry Taylor 15%
Tom Kean 8%
Steve Forbes 2%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

Democratic

Bill Clinton 59%
Bill Bradley 40%
Other 1%

Following N.H., Bradley concedes defeat, backs Clinton

Senator Bill Bradley of New Jersey ended his presidential campaign after failing to garner the needed support to challenge President Clinton. Bradley ended his campaign and endorsed President Bill Clinton's re-election, stating that "Bill Clinton is committed to working with the American people to combat the issues of urban crime, rural jobs being shipped overseas, and tax reform. He's also been a leader on gun control and equality for women" Bradley said of Clinton.

South Carolina GOP Primary

Phil Gramm 35%
Dan Quayle 31%
Morry Taylor 20%
John McCain 9%
Tom Kean 3%
Steve Forbes 1%
Alan Keyes 0.5%
Other 0.5%

Michigan GOP Primary

Morry Taylor 44%
Dan Quayle 30%
Phil Gramm 12%
John McCain 10%
Tom Kean 5%
Steve Forbes 5%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 3%

[Niemeyerite]

Poor Romney... He didn't gain any traction.

Go Clinton! Go Morry Taylor (for the lulz).

[dudeabides]

Alaska Caucus

Dan Quayle 33%
Phil Gramm 30%
Morry Taylor 20%
John McCain 7%
Tom Kean 6%
Steve Forbes 2%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

Hawaii Caucus
Dan Quayle 50%
Phil Gramm 25%
John McCain 15%
Morry Taylor 6%
Tom Kean 2%
Steve Forbes 1%
Alan Keyes 0.5%
Other 0.5%

Feb. 24, 1996 - Kean withdrawals from presidential race

After failing to gain traction in early primary, Former Governor of New Jersey Tom Kean ended his presidential bid ahead of contests in Arizona, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Virginia.

Arizona Primary

John McCain 61%
Dan Quayle 20%
Phil Gramm 10%
Morry Taylor 5%
Steve Forbes 2%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

North Dakota Caucuses

Morry Taylor 31%
Dan Quayle 30%
Phil Gramm 25%
John McCain 10%
Steve Forbes 2%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

South Dakota Caucuses

Morry Taylor 38%
Dan Quayle 25%
Phil Gramm 21%
John McCain 11%
Steve Forbes 3%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

Virginia Caucus

Dan Quayle 34%
Phil Gramm 30%
Morry Taylor 15%
John McCain 12%
Steve Forbes 6%
Alan Keyes 2%
Other 1%

March 2, 1996 - Steve Forbes ends presidential bid, endorses Dan Quayle

Ahead of Super Tuesday, Billionaire Steve Forbes conceded the 1996 GOP primary and endorsed opponent Dan Quayle, calling Quayle "the candidate I believe will do the most to help grow our economy and restore dignity to the white house."

March 5, 1996 - Quayle dominates Super Tuesday Contests

Colorado Primary
Dan Quayle 41%
Phil Gramm 30%
John McCain 15%
Morry Taylor 10%
Alan Keyes 3%
Other 1%

Connecticut Primary
Dan Quayle 39%
John McCain 30%
Phil Gramm 20%
Morry Taylor 9%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

Georgia Primary
Phil Gramm 34%
Dan Quayle 31%
Morry Taylor 20%
John McCain 12%
Alan Keyes 2%
Other 1%

Maine Primary
Dan Quayle 33%
John McCain 32%
Phil Gramm 20%
Morry Taylor 13%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

Maryland Primary
Dan Quayle 36%
Phil Gramm 25%
John McCain 20%
Morry Taylor 12%
Alan Keyes 6%
Other 1%

Massachusetts Primary
Dan Quayle 35%
John McCain 25%
Phil Gramm 24%
Morry Taylor 15%
Alan Keyes 0.5%
Other 0.5%

Minnesota Caucus
Dan Quayle 36%
Morry Taylor 31%
Phil Gramm 20%
John McCain 10%
Alan Keyes 2%
Other 1%

Rhode Island Primary
Dan Quayle 39%
John McCain 35%
Phil Gramm 15%
Morry Taylor 9%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

Vermont Primary
John McCain 35%
Dan Quayle 30%
Phil Gramm 25%
Morry Taylor 7%
Alan Keyes 2%
Other 1%

Washington Caucuses
Dan Quayle 44%
John McCain 30%
Morry Taylor 20%
Phil Gramm 4%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

March 7, 1996 - Dan Quayle narrowly wins New York Primary
Dan Quayle 37%
John McCain 36%
Phil Gramm 20%
Morry Taylor 5%
Alan Keyes 1%
Other 1%

March 9, 1996 - Morry Taylor wins Missouri Caucus
Morry Taylor 34%
Dan Quayle 33%
Phil Gramm 20%
John McCain 10%
Alan Keyes 2%
Other 1%

March 10, 1996 - Phil Gramm concedes GOP nomination

Senator Phil Gramm of Texas ended his presidential bid at a press conference in Washington D.C. "For over a year, we have fought to good fight for free markets and for family values. But, republicans across America have decided to pick another candidate. I will continue to fight for our values in the U.S. Senate, but today I end my presidential bid" Gramm stated.

March 11, 1996 - Sen. John McCain ends presidential campaign, endorses Dan Quayle

Senator John McCain of Arizona, after only capturing victories in New Hampshire, Arizona, and Vermont, ended his campaign for President of the United States. "Today, I end my campaign for President of the United States, thankful to all my supporters for helping us bring our reform message across the nation. Today, I also endorse Dan Quayle for President. He's our best hope not only of winning the 1996 election, but of balancing the budget and preserving our military."

March 12, 1996 - Quayle VS. Taylor


Florida Primary
Dan Quayle 42%
Morry Taylor 40%
Alan Keyes 15%
Other 3%

Louisiana Primary
Morry Taylor 51%
Dan Quayle 40%
Alan Keyes 8%
Other 1%

Mississippi Primary
Morry Taylor 60%
Dan Quayle 32%
Alan Keyes 5%
Other 3%

Oklahoma Primary
Dan Quayle 48%
Morry Taylor 45%
Alan Keyes 6%
Other 1%

Oregon Primary
Dan Quayle 81%
Morry Taylor 12%
Alan Keyes 5%
Other 2%

Tennessee Primary
Dan Quayle 49%
Morry Taylor 41%
Alan Keyes 8%
Other 2%

Texas Primary
Dan Quayle 50%
Morry Taylor 44%
Alan Keyes 5%
Other 1%

[dudeabides]

March 14, 1996 - Quayle campaign launches anti-Taylor ad in 4 states

"Does Morry Taylor really understand foreign policy? Taylor has zero foreign policy experience and has not even taken a position on military spending. Taylor wants to repeal NAFTA, which would weaken American alliances and our economy. Dan Quayle has said he'll increase defense spending to increase the size of the military, expand free trade, and make sure America is secure. Dan Quayle - the experienced conservative for President"

March 16, 1996 - Taylor ad attacks Quayle

Businessman and GOP Presidential Hopeful Morry Taylor starred in his own television commercial attacking opponent Dan Quayle; "Dan Quayle and I have some differences. I believe that shipping jobs overseas hurts the American worker. So, I'll repeal NAFTA and only re-negotiate trade it if it's fair. I'll also level the playing field with Japan and China. Dan Quayle supports NAFTA as it is right now. The difference between us? I have experience as a businessman dealing with manufacturing. Dan Quayle is a lawyer and a politician. I'm asking for your vote."

March 19, 1996 - Quayle dominates


Illinois Primary
Dan Quayle 59%
Morry Taylor 30%
Alan Keyes 10%
Other 1%

Ohio Primary
Dan Quayle 45%
Morry Taylor 42%
Alan Keyes 10%
Other 3%

Wisconsin Primary
Dan Quayle 51%
Morry Taylor 45%
Alan Keyes 2%
Other 2%


March 22, 1996 - With Quayle just 205 delegates shy of nomination, Morry Taylor concedes defeat

Businessman Morry Taylor, who lagged behind Dan Quayle in delegates needed for his party's presidential nomination, ended his presidential campaign and endorsed Dan Quayle, calling Quayle "The nominee of the republican party, and I am confident he will beat President Clinton and work to change the culture of Washington D.C."

March 22, 1996 - Delegate Count and Popular Vote as of March 22, 1996
Dan Quayle 7,422,462  998 delegates
Morry Taylor 5,432,224 602 delegates
Phil Gramm 2,345,535 301 delegates
John McCain 1,120,234 204 delegates
Tom Kean 402,000 101 delegates
Steve Forbes 199,355 54 delegates
Mitt Romney 199,355,23 41 delegates
Gary Bauer 97,023 15 delegates
Alan Keyes 45,342 4 delegates

March 26, 1996 - Dan Quayle secures GOP presidential nomination

After victories in California, Nevada, and Washington, Former Vice President Dan Quayle secured the GOP presidential nomination and spoke to supporters from Las Vegas, Nevada. "Tonight, I'd like to first of all thank my family and all of the millions of Americans who joined our cause for their efforts. Tonight, we have secured the needed delegates to claim that I will be the nominee of the republican party for President in 1996. We won because we believe that America needs to get back on track. Bill Clinton and I will represent to very different directions. President Clinton has vetoed welfare reform, raised your taxes, and has appointed activists to courts in America. I believe that it's time we reform welfare, cut taxes on the American people, increased choice in education, and rebuilt the American military. Where as we believe in limited government where you make more choices, President Clinton believes that the government should tell you where to send your kids to school and what health care you can have. This election is about the role of government and the future of our country" Quayle stated.

March 29, 1996 - CBS Survey finds Clinton ahead nationally

Bill Clinton (D) 48% 290 EV
Dan Quayle (R) 43% 248 EV

[Niemeyerite]

Dan Quayle is soooo boring... Hopefully he chooses someone like Keyes or Taylor for VP, so the GE gets more entertaining.

[Earthling]

He is a Republican. In this timeline he will win.

[Enderman]

I'm happy that my favorite vp has won the nom! Huckabee or somebody like that would be the icing on the cake...or is it the base? Anyways I'm happy...

[dudeabides]

He is a Republican. In this timeline he will win.

Not necessarily. Stay tuned.

Also, agreed on Quayle but in this scenario, he became the establishment favorite.

April 4, 1996 - President Clinton gives address contrasting himself to Dan Quayle

President Bill Clinton spoke to supporters in Cleveland, Ohio about the differences between him and Presumptive GOP Presidential Nominee Dan Quayle. Clinton, citing his administration's accomplishments on deficit reduction, adding police officers to American streets, and deregulation, stated that while he would continue to promote economic growth, Dan Quayle would "reduce taxes on the wealthy and gut regulations we do need, not just those we don't need." Clinton also compared his record to that of the Bush/Quayle administration, reminding Americans that "Our economy was in recession, and today we have unprecedented prosperity".

May 1, 1996 - Quayle gaffes, says Clinton passed universal health care

GOP Presidential Nominee Former Vice President Dan Quayle made a major gaffe when he told an Ohio audience that "President Clinton passed universal health care, and now our health care system is going to become more costly to the consumer and the federal government."

June 9, 1996 - George W. Bush: Clinton needs to answer questions about extramarital affairs, foreign campaign funding

Governor George W. Bush of Texas, speaking to law students at Rutgers University in Newark, NJ, stated that "President Clinton needs to explain to Americans why he is accepting money from Chinese companies, and he needs to level with Americans about his personal conduct as President of the United States as it relates to his marriage."

Gore: Bush a partisan hack and conspiracy theorist

Vice President Al Gore, responding to comments made by Governor George W. Bush of Texas about President Clinton, said that "The fact of the matter is, Governor Bush is a partisan hack who is creating conspiracy theories which are untrue about President Clinton and myself. Americans deserve a campaign based on issues, not conspiracy theories."

July 5, 1996 - Quayle calls on Clinton to sign welfare reform

Former Vice President Dan Quayle, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, called on President Clinton to sign the welfare reform law Speaker Newt Gingrich and congressional republicans had first proposed more than a year earlier.

July 15, 1996 - Clinton, Dole, Gingrich meet on welfare reform

President Bill Clinton, House Speaker Newt Gingrich, and Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole met to discuss welfare reform.

July 22, 1996 - Pres. Clinton signs bi-partisan welfare reform

President Bill Clinton signed bi-partisan welfare reform into law. The new law creates work requirements for welfare recipients, and limits welfare payments to 99 weeks.

August 1, 1996 - Dole to resign from Senate in January, will retire from politics

After spending decades in politics, Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole announced he would retire from the U.S. Senate when the new senate convened in January 1997. "For decades, I have tried to do my best to serve Kansas and America in the United States Senate. We fought to balance the budget, cut taxes, reform welfare, and to make government smaller. We succeeded at times, we failed other times. I'm proud of my work, and I'll retire with my head held high" Dole stated.

August 4, 1996 - Quayle picks Former rival for VP

Former Vice President Dan Quayle selected Senator Phil Gramm of Texas, who placed 3rd in the 1996 GOP presidential primaries, to be his running mate in the 1996 election. "Phil Gramm will help carry our message of family, faith, and freedom across this country" Quayle stated. Gramm said that "The work of 1994 is not over. Dan Quayle and I know how to lead, and we are going to give the government back to we the people."

August 28, 1996 - After both conventions, Clinton poised to win second term, according to CNN polling

Clinton/Gore (D) 51% 321 EV
Quayle/Gramm 39% 217 EV

[Maxwell]

Morry Taylor should get the nod in 2000 .

[dudeabides]

Morry Taylor should get the nod in 2000 .

Maybe. Stay tuned!

October 10, 1996 - Clinton, Quayle debate domestic issues

President Bill Clinton, the democratic nominee for President, and Former Vice President Dan Quayle, the GOP nominee for President, debated domestic issues at the first presidential debate. President Clinton, citing welfare reform, NAFTA, deficit reduction, deregulation, and increased police presence on American streets as his major accomplishments, stated that in his second term, he wanted to cut taxes on working families, balance the federal budget, invest $25 billion in infrastructure projects, expand health care access to children, and invest in green energy. Former Vice President Quayle attacked the Clinton administration on taxes and defense spending while praising his own record on tax cuts, national security, and veterans issues. Quayle said his top priorities would be to implement welfare reform, pass his $600 billion tax cut, increase defense spending to 1992 levels, and to pass a constitutional amendment banning abortion with exceptions for incest, rape, and the life of a mother. President Clinton attacked Dan Quayle's record as Vice President, stating that the Bush/Quayle policies led to the early 1990s recession. Quayle responded that Clinton's economic policies on taxes led to manufacturing leaving America.

CNN Poll: Who won the first debate?
Bill Clinton 49%
Dan Quayle 39%

October 16, 1996 - Gramm, Gore hold vice presidential debate

Vice President Al Gore (D) and Senator Phil Gramm of Texas (R) debated in their vice presidential debate. Gore slammed GOP opponent Dan Quayle as "out of touch and part of the failed policies of the 4 years before President Clinton and I took office". Gore also touted the Clinton administration's accomplishments on the economy; Gore pointed to strong economic growth in terms of jobs and housing. Gore said that re-electing President Clinton and him would help the country continue to invest in economic development while balancing the budget. Republican Vice Presidential Nominee Phil Gramm stated that Bill Clinton sought to increase the power of the federal government in economics and health care, while him and Dan Quayle would return power to the people and cut taxes while balancing the budget.

Who won the V.P. Debate Fox News Poll
Phil Gramm 49%
Al Gore 41%

October 21, 1996 - Clinton, Quayle debate foreign policy

President Bill Clinton and Former Vice President Dan Quayle debated foreign policy issues in their second debate. President Clinton argued that his administration kept America at relative peace and built stronger alliances in the international community. Mr. Quayle argued that the Clinton administration had put Americans at risk by cutting defense spending, and he also argued the administration continued to ignore threats coming from the middle east.

Who won the second debate CBS Poll
Dan Quayle 45%
Bill Clinton 43%

October 25, 1996 - In final, town hall debate, Clinton & Quayle make closing arguments while answering questions

President Clinton and Dan Quayle answered audience questions during their final, town hall style presidential debate. Each of them also made their closing statements to Americans, the text of which follows;

President Clinton: "4 years ago, America faced deficits, debt, and recession. Today, we are building a bridge to the 21st century. We have reformed our welfare system, cut taxes on working families, stopped over regulating, reduced the size of government, enacted NAFTA and other free trade agreements, made our streets safer by banning dangerous assault weapons and adding police officers to our streets, and we will continue to pursue policies that invest in our people, our safety, and our economy for the next 4 years. We've cut the deficit in half and have added 12 million new jobs. We are moving in the right direction. My opponent wants to bring us back to the days when we cut taxes on the rich and ran massive deficits. My fellow citizens, America is back. We are going to build that bridge to the 21st century. It takes the right kind of leadership to do so."

Dan Quayle: "President Clinton has embarked upon an era where people do not trust government. In 1992, President Clinton promised Americans he would not raise taxes on the middle class, he broke his promise. He promised Americans he would reform welfare, he vetoed it twice before a republican majority in congress pressured him to do so in an election year. He promised Americans he'd reduce our national debt, he's played number games ever since. President Clinton has promised us things, and he has broken his promises. He's misled America about his conduct as President, and about his policies. I offer Americans experienced, steady leadership. I believe that America must elect someone who will restore the morals of our country, fight to expand our economy, and again believe in the American military."

Who won the final debate ABC Poll
Bill Clinton 52%
Dan Quayle 40%

October 28, 1996 - CNN Poll: Ahead of election, Clinton approval at 54%, ahead in popular vote & electoral college


Clinton approval
Approve 54%
Disapprove 40%
Neutral 6%

General Election
Clinton / Gore (D) 50% 325 EV
Quayle / Gramm 41% 213 EV

[Niemeyerite]

If Clinton's up by 9, I'd expect him to be far ahead in Louisiana and West Virginia, ahead in Missouri and probably leading in Ohio and Colorado (Bob Dole was a good fit for the state, Quayle isn't). But it's your TL, so you decide Great so far.

[dudeabides]

If Clinton's up by 9, I'd expect him to be far ahead in Louisiana and West Virginia, ahead in Missouri and probably leading in Ohio and Colorado (Bob Dole was a good fit for the state, Quayle isn't). But it's your TL, so you decide Great so far.

Thank You for your input, and your kind words. The reason I have Quayle ahead in some states Clinton won is, Quayle is more conservative than Dole, and he has more energy to campaign in those states than Dole.

Election Night 1996



8 PM Poll Closings
Georgia - Quayle 52% Clinton 47%
Kentucky - Too Close to Call
Indiana - Quayle 74% Clinton 25%
South Carolina - Quayle 53% Clinton 46%
Vermont - Clinton 59% Quayle 40%
Virginia - Quayle 54% Clinton 45%
North Carolina - Quayle 56% Clinton 43%
Ohio - Clinton 53% Quayle 46%
West Virginia - Too Close to Call
Alabama - Quayle 55% Clinton 44%
Connecticut - Clinton 59% Quayle 40%
Delaware - Clinton 61% Quayle 38%
Florida - Too Close to Call
Illinois - Clinton 62% Quayle 37%
Maine - Clinton 59% Quayle 40%
Maryland - Clinton 56% Quayle 43%
Massachusetts - Clinton 64% Quayle 35%
Mississippi - Quayle 51% Clinton 48%
Missouri - Too Close to Call
New Hampshire - Clinton 55% Quayle 44%
New Jersey - Clinton 54% Quayle 45%
Oklahoma - Quayle 67% Clinton 32%
Pennsylvania - Clinton 53% Quayle 46%
Rhode Island - Clinton 78% Quayle 21%
Tennessee - Too Close to Call
Washington D.C. - Clinton 91% Quayle 8%

9 PM Poll Closings
Arkansas - Clinton 57% Quayle 42%
Arizona - Too Close to Call
Colorado - Quayle 52% Clinton 47%
Kansas - Quayle 60% Clinton 38%
Louisiana - Quayle 53% Clinton 46%
Michigan - Clinton 58% Quayle 41%
Minnesota - Clinton 62% Quayle 37%
Nebraska - Quayle 54% Clinton 45%
New Mexico - Too Close to Call
New York - Clinton 63% Quayle 36%
South Dakota - Quayle 57% Clinton 42%
Texas - Quayle 60% Clinton 38%
Wisconsin - Clinton 53% Quayle 46%
Wyoming - Quayle 66% Clinton 33%

9:22 PM - Quayle wins Kentucky
Quayle 49.2% Clinton 49%

9:33 PM - Clinton wins West Virginia
Clinton 50% Quayle 49%

9:54 PM - Clinton wins New Mexico
Clinton 51% Quayle 48%

10 PM Poll Closings
Iowa - Too Close to Call
Montana - Quayle 52% Clinton 47%
Nevada - Clinton 51% Quayle 48%
Utah - Quayle 68% Clinton 31%

10:22 PM - Quayle wins Missouri
Quayle 49.6% Clinton 49.2%

10:45 PM - Clinton wins Arizona
Clinton 51% Quayle 48%

10:53 PM - Clinton wins Tennessee
Clinton 52% Quayle 47%


11 PM Poll Closings
California - Clinton 62% Quayle 37%
Hawaii - Clinton 70% Quayle 29%
North Dakota - Quayle 68% Clinton 31%
Oregon - Clinton 60% Quayle 39%
Washington - Clinton 61% Quayle 38%

11:12 PM - AP: President Clinton leads in Arizona & Florida, projected to win re-election

The Associated Press projected that President Clinton would win re-election in the 1996 presidential election.

11:27 PM - Clinton wins Arizona
Clinton 51% Quayle 48%

11:33 PM - Despite Democratic gains, GOP keeps both houses of congress

11:37 PM - Quayle wins Florida, not enough to win the election
Quayle 50% Clinton 49%

12:05 AM - Dan Quayle concedes defeat

Former Vice President Dan Quayle, the 1996 GOP Presidential Nominee, conceded the 1996 election to President Bill Clinton. "Earlier, I spoke with President Clinton and offered him my congratulations on an impressive victory. We must respect the choice of the American people, and we must respect those who worked so hard to re-elect the President. I am so grateful to all of you of brining our message of freedom, faith, and family all across this great land. I hope moving forward, we can continue to fight for the values we believe in" Quayle stated.

12:40 AM - President Clinton accepts re-election victory

President Bill Clinton accepted re-election and congratulated Dan Quayle on the campaign he ran. "Tonight, I am humbled by the historic victory you have delivered. For the past 4 years, America has begun to grow and prosper again. Over the next 4 years, we will continue to grow, prosper, and be secure. Serving as your President has been the honor of a lifetime. I am so grateful to all of you for helping me help America, and together we will build the bridge to the 21st century" Clinton stated.

1996 Presidential Election
Bill Clinton / Al Gore (D) 53% 311 EV
Dan Quayle / Phil Gramm (R) 46% 227 EV
Other 1%

[JerryArkansas]

Arizona is wrong

[dudeabides]

Arizona is wrong

You are right. Quayle wins Arizona, Clinton wins the election.

[dudeabides]

Key Events January 20, 1997 - March 1, 1999

January 20, 1997 - Clinton, Gore sworn in for second term


March 2, 1997 - Clinton, Gingrich agree to capital gains tax reduction, Clinton signs it into law

President Bill Clinton signed into law the largest capital gains tax cut in U.S. history, something House Speaker Newt Gingrich had lobbied for.

June 3, 1997 - Despite Clinton's support, McCain-Feingold fails

Despite support from President Clinton, the McCain-Feingold campaign finance reform law failed in congress and the U.S. Senate, with a majority of republicans and some democrats opposing the law.

October 1, 1997 - President Clinton signs SCHIP into law

President Bill Clinton signed into law the State Children's Health Insurance Program, something Senators Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and Orin Hatch (R-UT) had worked on. The law expanded health care coverage to low income children and some adults.

January 5, 1998 - Congress gives Clinton the authority to send troops to Kovosco

Congress voted to give President Clinton the authority to send in U.S. troops to Kovosco for a peace-keeping mission.

April 21, 1998 - House brings charges against Clinton

Despite House Speaker Newt Gingrich's objections, the GOP controlled House brought ethics charges against Bill Clinton, alleging he lied under oath about a relationship he had with a white house intern, Monica Lewinsky.


May 14, 1998 - Gingrich won't seek re-election to House

House Speaker Newt Gingrich announced he would not seek re-election to the House of Representatives in the 1998 elections. He cited personal reasons for doing so.

August 21, 1998 - Congress voted against Clinton impeachment/b]

Despite admitting an affair with Monica Lewinsky weeks earlier, congress voted against impeaching President Bill Clinton.

November 1998 - GOP keeps majority in house, democrats win U.S. Senate

December 2, 1998 - U.S. economy had its best month in U.S. history in November 1998

The U.S. economy added 600,000 jobs in November 1998, as the unemployment rate dropped from 4.8% to 4.3%. This was the strongest month of economic growth recorded in U.S. history.

January 20, 1999 - Clinton announces Kovosco withdrawal
President Bill Clinton announced that U.S. forces in Kovosco had succeeded in their mission and that they would withdrawal.

March 1, 1999 - 2000 presidential hopefuls

Republicans

Governor George W. Bush of Texas


Businessman and 1996 Presidential Hopeful Morry Taylor


Senator Fred Thompson of Tennessee


Congressman John Boehner of Ohio


Former Secretary of State James Baker


Governor John Engler of Michigan


Former Ambassador & 1996 presidential hopeful Alan Keyes


Former Governor of California Pete Wilson


Democrats

Vice President Al Gore


House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt


Governor Howard Dean of Vermont


Senator John Kerry of Massachusetts


Billionaire Jon Corzine

[Niemeyerite]

Wow, funny primaries for both parties!!