Camelot Rises: 1960 and On

[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.

[Enderman]

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

[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%

[quentincollin]

You couldn't keep Nixon from winning the election, could you??

[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

[DKrol]

Dan Rather: With the results that are coming in, we can now project that President Robert J. Dole has been re-elected as President. That’s due to his winning these following states: Arizona, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Vermont, Connecticut, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Senator Biden won none of the states that close at 9PM.

Arizona for Dole

Maryland for Dole

Pennsylvania for Dole

Illinois for Dole

Vermont for Dole

Colorado for Dole

Kansas for Dole

Connecticut for Dole

Louisiana for Dole

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

President Robert J. Dole/Vice President George H.W. Bush (R) - 416
Senator Joseph R. Biden/Mayor Edward I. Koch (D) - 23

”I knew it was a smart idea to reject the VP Spot on Biden’s ticket.” - Senator Jimmy Carter, reflecting on the Election of ‘84 in his 2000 book “My Time”

[DKrol]

Dan Rather: We’re at the point of the night where it becomes more about by how much President Dole win by, rather than who will win. We’ve got more states to project now. CBS can now project the following states.

Iowa for Dole

Montana for Dole

Nevada for Dole

Utah for Dole

California for Dole

Hawaii for Biden

Idaho for Dole

North Dakota for Dole

Oregon for Dole

Washington for Biden

Alaska for Dole

Rather: That’s the end of the Presidential Election of 1984. Here’s the final Electoral Map and Electoral Vote totals as we close.

President Robert J. Dole/Vice President George H.W. Bush (R) - 501
Senator Joseph R. Biden/Mayor Edward I. Koch (D) - 37

[DKrol]

Dole Rejects Second Inauguration, Has Simple Swearing-In

January 20, 1985

  In an unprecedented move the White House Chief of Staff, James Baker, announced on the 1st of January that there would not be a second Inauguration for President Dole. Baker said that Dole believes “there is no need to spend many thousands of the taxpayers dollars” for an outdoor Inauguration, with a parade, massive security details, and “other expenses”. Instead the President had opted for a simple swearing ceremony in the Oval Office with only Congressional Leaders, family, and media personnel present. The swearing in, done by Chief Justice Warren Burger, was televised across the nation and was followed by an address to the nation by President Dole from the Oval Office, announcing that another 15 of the Americans held hostage in Iran had been found and safely returned home. That leaves 38 Americans being held overseas.

Overview of the Second Robert J. Dole Administration: Pre-Mid-Term
1985
- The Civil Rights Act of 1971 is renewed for 13 more years
- Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini is captured in the city of Khomeyn and held by US forces
- The remaining Americans are released and the War in Iran ends
- The Iran-Iraq War ends, thanks to mediation by Vice President Bush
1986
- Unemployment rises, for the first time in the Dole administration, to 6.1%
- The UN creates a special International Criminal Tribunal to try Ayatollah Khomeini for various crimes against humanity.
- Attorney General Scalia is appointed to Supreme Court, Rehnquist is raised to Chief Justice
- A Democratic Government is installed in Iran, electing Abolhassan Banisadr as President
- SoS Reagan and Chairman Mikhail Gorbachev discuss scaling back missile stockpiles. They collapse after 3 days

Cabinet of Robert J. Dole (1985-1989)
Vice President: George H.W. Bush
Secretary of State: Howard H. Baker, Jr. (1985), Ronald W. Reagan (1985-)
Secretary of the Treasury: Ronald W. Reagan (1985), Donald T. Regan (1985-1988), William E. Simon (1988-)
Secretary of Defense: John W. Warner (1985-1987), William H. Taft IV (1987-)
Attorney General: Antonin G. Scalia (1985-1986), William H. Webster (1986-)
Secretary of the Interior: James G. Watt
Secretary of Agriculture: John R. Block
Secretary of Commerce: Malcolm S. Forbes
Secretary of Labor: William E. Brock III
Secretary of Health and Human Services: Richard J. Schweiker
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Samuel R. Pierce (1985), Jack F. Kemp (1985-)
Secretary of Transportation: Andrew L. Lewis, Jr.
Secretary of Energy: Donald P. Hodel

Ayatollah Captured, Hostages Released, War Ends

July 9, 1985

  After 3 years of war, our sons are coming home. Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was captured a month ago by American and British forces and is being held in an unspecified military prison. A week later all of the remaining American Embassy personnel were released by their captors as the government of Iran collapsed. President Bob Dole announced an immediate withdrawal of troops from Iran, and today the first batch of soldiers returned home. President and First Lady Dole, as well as Governor and First Lady Clinton of Arkansas,  welcomed the soldiers home after their 3 year deployment. Vice President George Bush greeted the last of the hostages as they landed in Boston, and Secretary of State Ronald Reagan rode in a hearse to Virginia, sitting with the family and casket of the only killed hostage. President Dole is expected to attend the funeral next week.

US-Soviet Talks Collapse

AP -- October 12, 1986

  The thawing of relations with the Soviet Union may take some more time. President Bob Dole was originally supposed to meet Chairman Mikhail Gorbachev but he pulled out at the last minute, sending Secretary of State Ronald Reagan in his place. The meeting was chilly from the start, with general distrust on both sides of the table. The official purposed of the summit was to discuss the need to scale-back chemical weapon stockpiles on both sides, but Secretary Reagan brought up the need for human rights in the Soviet Union Chairman Gorbachev walked out.

[DKrol]

Republicans Maintain Senate by a Seat, Democrats Keep House
AP -- November 5, 1986

Senate Composition: 51 Republicans, 49 Democrats
Senate Leadership: Majority Leader: Ted Stevens (R-AK) Majority Whip: Dan Quayle (R-IN) Minority Leader: Alan Cranston (D-CA) Minority Whip: Chris Dodd (D-CT)
House Composition: 258 Democrats, 177 Republicans
House Leadership: Speaker: Jim Wright (D-TX-12) Majority Leader: Tom Foley (D-WA-5) Majority Whip: Dick Gephardt (D-MO-3) Minority Leader: Trent Lott (R-MS-5) Minority Whip: Mike DeWine (R-OH-7)

Overview of the Second Robert J. Dole Administration: Post-Mid-Term
1987:
- The Dow Jones closes above 2000 for the first time.
- Two Iraqi Missiles hit the USS Stark, killing 47 soldiers
- President Dole challenges Chairman Gorbachev to “tear down” the Berlin Wall
- Black Monday hits and stocks worldwide plummet. President Dole closes the NYSE for two days.
1988
- Economic restructuring begins in the Soviet Union
- Surgeon General C. Everett Coop states that nicotine is as addictive as cocaine and heroin
- Space Shuttle flights continue, after a restructuring to the program
- World AIDS Day is observed

Bush, Reagan, Quayle, Kean Running for Republicans, Dukakis, Gore, Cuomo for Democrats

October 5, 1987

Vice President George H.W. Bush will run for President for the second time, as will Secretary of State Ronald W. Reagan. There will also be two newcomers to Presidential politics, Senate Majority Whip J. Danforth “Dan” Quayle and New Jersey Governor Thomas Kean. A new poll shows Vice President Bush leading with 32%, followed by Governor Kean at 31%, Secretary Reagan at 27%, and Senator Quayle at 10%. On the Democratic side, Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis announced he would be running for President, as well as Tennessee Senator Al Gore, Jr., and New York Governor Mario Cuomo. A recent poll gives Governor Cuomo frontrunner-status. The poll shows Governor Cuomo at 46%, Governor Dukakis at 31%, and Senator Gore at 23%.

October 5 Polls

1988 Republican Nomination:
George H.W. Bush: 32%
Thomas H. Kean: 31%
Ronald W. Reagan: 27%
J. Danforth Quayle: 10%

1988 Democratic Nomination:
Mario M. Cuomo: 46%
Michael S. Dukakis: 31%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 23%

[DKrol]

So, how about some reader feedback?

[Enderman]

I like the idea of Reagan after Dole, but he has to have one term, sadly... I guess it should be Reagan/Quayle

[DKrol]

1988 Primary Contests

Republicans


Vice President George H.W. Bush of Texas


Secretary of State Ronald W. Reagan of California


Governor Thomas H. Kean of New Jersey


Senator J. Danforth “Dan” Quayle of Indiana

Democrats


Governor Mario M. Cuomo of New York


Governor Michael S. Dukakis of Massachusetts


Senator Albert A. Gore, Jr. of Tennessee

[DKrol]

Michigan Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 34%
Thomas H. Kean: 32%
Ronald W. Reagan: 21%
J. Danforth Quayle: 13%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 51%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 32%
Michael S. Dukakis: 17%

Hawaii Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 42%
Ronald W. Reagan: 37%
George H.W. Bush: 17%
J. Danforth Quayle: 4%

Democrats

Michael S. Dukakis: 44%
Mario M. Cuomo: 41%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 15%

Kansas Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 33%
Thomas H. Kean: 30%
J. Danforth Quayle: 22%
Ronald W. Reagan: 15%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 46%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 32%
Michael S. Dukakis: 22%

Iowa Caucus

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 40%
George H.W. Bush: 21%
Ronald W. Reagan: 23%
J. Danforth Quayle: 16%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 42%
Michael S. Dukakis: 41%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 17%

Senator J. Strom Thurmond of South Carolina Endorses Secretary Reagan
AP -- February 8, 1988

Senator Jimmy E. Carter of Georgia Endorses Governor Cuomo
AP -- February 10, 1988

Governor Bill J. Clinton of Arkansas Endorses Senator Gore
AP -- February 11, 1988

Republican Primary Map

Vice President George H.W. Bush
Governor Thomas H. Kean
Secretary of State Ronald W. Reagan
Senator J. Danforth Quayle

Democratic Primary Map

Governor Mario M. Cuomo
Governor Michael S. Dukakis
Senator Albert A. Gore, Jr.

[DKrol]

New Hampshire Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 45%
Thomas H. Kean: 30%
J. Danforth Quayle: 14%
Ronald W. Reagan: 11%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 43%
Michael S. Dukakis: 41%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 16%

Governor Cuomo Upsets Governor Dukakis in New Hampshire
AP -- February 16, 1988

Governor Dukakis Suspends Campaign, Endorses Governor Cuomo
AP -- February 17, 1988

Nevada Primary

Republicans

Ronald W. Reagan: 51%
Thomas H. Kean: 21%
George H.W. Bush: 20%
J. Danforth Quayle: 8%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 68%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 32%

Senator Quayle Suspends Campaign, Endorses Governor Kean
AP -- February 20, 1988

Minnesota Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 43%
George H.W. Bush: 30%
Ronald W. Reagan: 27%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 65%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 34%

South Dakota Primary

Republicans

Ronald W. Reagan: 45%
Thomas H. Kean: 32%
George H.W. Bush: 23%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 52%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 48%

Wyoming Primary

Republicans

Ronald W. Reagan: 47%
Thomas H. Kean: 33%
George H.W. Bush: 20%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 53%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 47%

Maine Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 54%
Thomas H. Kean: 33%
Ronald W. Reagan: 13%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 65%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 35%

Secretary Reagan Suspends Campaign, Cites Health Issues

AP -- February 28

Secretary of State Ronald W. Reagan announced at a Press Conference in the afternoon of the Maine Primary that he would be suspending his campaign immediately. The 77 year old former Governor announced that he has been diagnosed with early signs of Alzheimer’s and cannot “in good conscious continue to pursue my party’s nomination for President.” Secretary Reagan did not endorse a candidate, instead saying that he plans on “withdrawing from political and public life,” to spend more time with his wife, Nancy.

Republican Primary Map

Vice President George H.W. Bush
Governor Thomas H. Kean
Secretary of State Ronald W. Reagan
Senator J. Danforth Quayle

Democratic Primary Map

Governor Mario M. Cuomo
Governor Michael S. Dukakis
Senator Albert A. Gore, Jr.

[DKrol]

Alaska Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 52%
George H.W. Bush: 48%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 51%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 49%

Vermont Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 51%
George H.W. Bush: 49%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 55%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 45%

South Carolina Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 53%
Thomas H. Kean: 47%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 52%
Mario M. Cuomo: 48%

Super Tuesday, March 8, 1988

Alabama Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 53%
Thomas H. Kean: 47%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 56%
Mario M. Cuomo: 44%

Arkansas Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 51%
George H.W. Bush: 49%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 50.3%
Mario M. Cuomo: 49.7%

Florida Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 56%
George H.W. Bush: 44%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 53%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 47%

Georgia Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 52%
Thomas H. Kean: 47%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 56%
Mario M. Cuomo: 44%

Kentucky Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 52%
Thomas H. Kean: 48%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 51%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 49%

Louisiana Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 53%
Thomas H. Kean: 47%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 52%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 48%

Maryland Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 56%
George H.W. Bush: 44%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 62%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 38%

Massachusetts Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 53%
George H.W. Bush: 47%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 55%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 45%

Mississippi Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 53%
Thomas H. Kean: 47%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 55%
Mario M. Cuomo: 45%

Missouri Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 51%
George H.W. Bush: 49%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 53%
Mario M. Cuomo: 47%

North Carolina Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 53%
Thomas H. Kean: 47%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 53%
Mario M. Cuomo: 47%

Oklahoma Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 54%
George H.W. Bush: 46%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 52%
Mario M. Cuomo: 48%

Rhode Island Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 55%
George H.W. Bush: 45%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 59%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 41%

Tennessee Primary

Republicans


Thomas H. Kean: 52%
George H.W. Bush: 48%

Democrats

Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 63%
Mario M. Cuomo: 37%

Texas Primary

Republicans

George H.W. Bush: 61%
Thomas H. Kean: 39%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 52%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 48%

Virginia Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 54%
George H.W. Bush: 46%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 52%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 48%

Washington Primary

Republicans

Thomas H. Kean: 54%
George H.W. Bush: 46%

Democrats

Mario M. Cuomo: 53%
Albert A. Gore, Jr.: 47%

Republican Primary Map

Vice President George H.W. Bush
Governor Thomas H. Kean
Secretary of State Ronald W. Reagan
Senator J. Danforth Quayle


Democratic Primary Map

Governor Mario M. Cuomo
Governor Michael S. Dukakis
Senator Albert A. Gore, Jr.


Senator Gore Suspends Campaign, Endorses Governor Cuomo
AP -- March 10, 1988


Vice President Bush Suspends Campaign, Endorses Governor Kean
AP -- March 11, 1988


Election 1988 - Kean v. Cuomo

[DKrol]

No ‘84 Landslide, Tight Race

AP -- May 5, 1988

Neither Governor Tom Kean nor Governor Mario Cuomo can expect to win by the margin of President Dole’s 1984 re-election landslide. If the race were held today, by a compilation of the most recent polls, Governor Kean would win 246 Electoral votes, compared to 182 for Governor Cuomo, with 110 states sitting in the “toss-up” column. Two states of interest are Arkansas and West Virginia, both toss-ups. In Arkansas, Governor Cuomo holds a lead of .3% due to the massive support from the very popular Governor, Bill Clinton. West Virginia, a Kean state by 2%, is very tight due to Governor Cuomo’s appeal to blue-collar, industrial workers. Many southern states, including Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina, would be toss-ups if Governor Cuomo chose Senator Jimmy Carter as his running mate.

Kean Shortlist Leaked

AP -- June 1, 1988

A staffer from Governor Tom Kean’s campaign released the short-list of Vice Presidential candidates that Governor Kean has been vetting. At the top of the list is Supreme Court Associate Justice Sandra Day O’Connor of Arizona, followed by Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Jack Kemp of New York, and First Lady Elizabeth Dole of North Carolina. Polls put the Kean/O’Connor ticket 3% behind a Cuomo/Generic VP ticket, the Kean/Kemp ticket 1% ahead of a Cuomo/Generic VP ticket, and the Kean/Dole ticket is 4% ahead of a Cuomo/Generic VP ticket.

Cuomo Shortlist Leaked

AP -- June 3, 1988

Two days after the Vice Presidential Shortlist was leaked from the Kean campaign a similar list has been leaked from the Cuomo campaign. To little surprise, Senator Jimmy Carter of Georgia tops the ticket, followed by Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts, a former Governor and the current Chief Justice of the Superior Judicial Court of Massachusetts,and Senator Lloyd Bentsen of Texas. The Cuomo/Carter ticket leads a Kean/O’Connor ticket by 4%, a Kean/Kemp ticket by 3%, and ties a Kean/Dole ticket with 50% each. The Cuomo/Kennedy ticket ties a Kean/O’Connor ticket at 50% each, and trails a Kean/Kemp ticket by 1%, and a Kean/Dole ticket by 2%. The Cuomo/Bentsen ticket trails a Kean/O’Connor ticket by .5%, ties a Kean/Kemp ticket with 50% each, and leads a Kean/Dole ticket by .2%. Regardless of who the running mates are, this will be a close race.