The liberal Republic

[OSR stands with Israel]

There is still potentially a chance for Missouri to be the deciding state which could cause the election to be in some ways decided by the courts

[President Punxsutawney Phil]

This election could come down to CA (high number of electoral votes) and MO (very close margin).

[President Johnson]

★★★ CBS Election Night Coverage continues. With Walter Cronkite & Dan Rather. ★★★






10 p.m.

REAGAN taking more Mountain states, BROWN carries IOWA



Walter Cronkite: Ladies and Gentlemen, we’re back with our coverage of election night 1980. I’m delighted we have you here and I just turn over to Dan as ten O’clock poll closings are eminent. Dan, what’s happening?

Dan Rather: Walter, we have a bunch of state calling at this moment now that polls have closed in another group of states, mostly in the Mountain West region. CBS News can already confirm Ronald Reagan won Montana and Utah. We’re not ready to call Nevada and Idaho yet, though both are expected to end up in his column as well. With regard to Idaho, we have a special kind of a situation since it’s the homestate of Democratic vice presidential nominee Frank Church, who is also running for reelection to the senate.

Walter Cronkite: Church faced some criticism for this move, though he had long declared his candidacy for reelection before he was chosen by Jerry Brown. That was somewhat unexpected as well, as Governor Brown was widely assumed to choose a Southerner for his second place.

Dan Rather: You summarized this pretty well, Walter. Church had the option to drop out of the senate race, but wasn’t actually required to do so. Previous vice presidential candidates did so likewise. Just remember Lyndon Johnson in 1960, who won reelection to the senate the same day he was elected vice president. However, contrary to Johnson, Church may miss to win his senate seat this time around as polling showed him trailing. Especially since he joined the Brown ticket in August. So it may indeed be vice president or nothing for him.

Walter Cronkite: Which brings us back to the presidential contest: Iowa polls closed, too, and we already have a winner here: According to our sources on the ground, Jerry Brown managed to take the state. Eight electoral votes for him. And – hold on – I’m just hearing New Mexico is called as well. As expected, Ronald Reagan emerged victorious. His electoral count stands at 199 now, just short of 200. Jerry Brown is at 120 now, 79 behind.

Dan Rather: As we near poll closings at the West coast and calls in key battleground elsewhere, I think the next one to two hours will be pivotal. We may not have a winner then, but a much clearer picture where this is going.



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 199 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 120 EV.
Too early/close to call: 152 EV.
Polls not closed: 67 EV.



10.16 p.m.

BREAKING: BROWN wins PENNSYLVANIA, REAGAN NORTH DAKOTA and NEW JERSEY; McGOVERN loses SENATE seat




Walter Cronkite: So, we have three major updates for you at this hour. Three more calls, of whom two are potentially pivotal states.

Dan Rather: Within the last ten minutes, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and North Dakota updated their vote tables. These updates give us enough confidence to call all three of them: The biggest prize of them, Pennsylvania with its 27 electoral votes, move into the Democratic column. Governor Jerry Brown has a lead of nearly 150,000 votes with 96% of the vote in. That lead increased from 110,000 in the past hour with votes from Western Pennsylvania coming in now. An area, in which Brown did surprisingly well, along with Philadelphia. He even made gains in the suburbs, in which Reagan is still having a strong stance and getting at least Rockefeller 1972 margins. However, it wasn’t enough to hold Brown under 50%, which he was cleared now. Then we move to the neighboring state, New Jersey, where Reagan has narrowly edged out an unexpected good showing by Brown. With 97% in, Brown just down 102,000 votes. And finally, North Dakota, which Reagan also managed to keep in the Republican tally.

Walter Cronkite: It stands 219 to 147 as of now. Can we already call Reagan favored? I’m not so sure, though he could actually seal the deal with Ohio and later California.



Dan Rather: Still a long way, though Reagan certainly is where he needs to be. Alright, I have another important update: While still uncalled at the presidential level, it seems like George McGovern has lost his bid for reelection to the senate. We remember McGovern, who’s been a firebrand liberal and vice presidential candidate of 1976. Many believe his selection was the biggest error of Edmund Muskie’s campaign, which ended up in an epic defeat against President Rockefeller. Even a lot of Democrats like Bobby Kennedy later admitted so and simply had enough of McGovern’s controversial expressions. We also remember his conduct in senate hearings, especially the heated exchanges with Secretary of State Richard Nixon over the last eight years. I’m sure Secretary Nixon will look at this with great joy tonight.

Walter Cronkite: I would imagine that, too. Perhaps this is the most significant congressional flip so far, even ahead of New York, where Elizabeth Holzman has defeat both Al D’Amato and incumbent senator Jacob Javits. Latter ran on the Liberal Party line after losing the Republican nomination to D’Amato. So far, we have one Democratic pickup and two Republican pickups. A net Republican gain of one so far, coming from a 53 – 47 Democratic senate.


10.29 p.m.

BREAKING: BROWN declared winner in WISCONSIN



Walter Cronkite: Ladies and Gentlemen, we have another call just coming in. CBS News can now project Jerry Brown has won the state of Wisconsin. That’s an important gain for him, as he reaches over 150 electoral votes now. Another flip from 1976.

Dan Rather: Yeah, it’s actually pretty insane, if you want to say so, that every single state Jerry Brown wins is a flip from 1976. Only Washington DC isn’t, although it’s not a state. However, it seems like Jerry Brown has clearly done his homework in the Midwest, having won most of the contests here. Ohio and Illinois remain open so far. My early expectation would be Reagan taking Ohio and Brown Illinois.

Walter Cronkite: You just said it. I’m hearing that we can expect calls coming in within the next hour, perhaps within half an hour. Let us check how things are standing in a number of key battlegrounds. I’m particularly interested in Missouri and the two we just talked about.

Dan Rather: Indeed, before all eyes will be upon California. Polls will close in less than 30 minutes at the West coast. But before, let’s the check other battlegrounds. Another important one is Georgia here. Let’s take a look here:


CONNECTICUT (93% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 639,274 (48.88%)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 637,575 (48.75%)

GEORGIA (95% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 742,254 (48.91%)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 741,951 (48.89%)

ILLINOIS (92% in)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 2,231,190 (51.06%)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 2,084,804 (47.71%)

MISSOURI (96% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 996,022 (49.41%)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 985,740 (48.90%)

OHIO (94% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 2,012,488 (49.98%)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 1,975,040 (49.05%)

SOUTH DAKOTA (90% in)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 149,412 (50.66%)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 138,570 (46.95%)


Walter Cronkite: It’s pretty stunning how close some of these states are with well over 90% counted. Very often, the two candidates are just separated by a few thousand votes. However, I think the figures confirm your expectations from earlier that Reagan is well positioned for Ohio, while Brown is most likely having an upper hand in Illinois. However, we need to add that Brown’s advantage in that states has decreased in the last hour. There are still votes to count in both Democratic and Republican leaning areas. His current lead of well over 100,000 may hold though. In Ohio, Reagan has taken the lead about an hour ago and it’s slowly increasing.

Dan Rather: Meanwhile, if you look at Missouri, that gets interesting: Reagan’s previous lead has substantially shrunk since we last checked the numbers. It’s just over 10,000 at this point, and further vanishing. I think this state will be within that margin in the end.

Walter Cronkite: Absolutely, we may not even call it before 100% are counted. Also interesting is Connecticut, which has been unusually slow in counting. It’s still too close to call.

Dan Rather: The last update came twenty minutes ago, reporting another slate of votes. However, it goes on very slowly as you said. Georgia remains last state of the Deep South to be called, and it may actually be a Democratic island in a Republican sea. It’s still too early, although Brown has now almost close a gap of over 100,000 votes in the last 80 minutes. Let’s check the electoral map: Reagan ahead 219 – 158.



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 219 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 158 EV.
Too early/close to call: 94 EV.
Polls not closed: 67 EV.


Walter Cronkite: CBS News will be back with more in just a moment. Stay with us.

[OSR stands with Israel]

Democrats are probably happy Jerry Brown is the nominee so far as no other Democrat would probably have a chance to win California which would pretty be ball game for them.

[President Johnson]

Democrats are probably happy Jerry Brown is the nominee so far as no other Democrat would probably have a chance to win California which would pretty be ball game for them.

Yes, though Lloyd Bentsen or Reubin Askew (the runner-ups) could have done better in the South. Brown's southern performance isn't that good here, probably would only be better than Muskie's 1976 blowout.

[President Johnson]

★★★ CBS Election Night Coverage continues. With Walter Cronkite & Dan Rather. ★★★






10.50 p.m.

BREAKING: CBS calls MISSOURI for REAGAN



Walter Cronkite: Ladies and Gentlemen, we’re back with our coverage of election night 1980. Dan, you have a major call for this night?

Dan Rather: Yes, Walter we have. As Missouri just updated its numbers, and 98.7% are in, CBS News is now projecting that Ronald Reagan has narrowly carried the battleground state of Missouri. His current margin is at 11,500 votes, which we believe is not enough for Jerry Brown to overcome with the remaining ballots left to include. With that many votes in and considering where we are at this hour in different areas, we feel comfortable enough to give this to Reagan.

Walter Cronkite: What’s going on with these provisional ballots we talked about? The votes cast after official poll closings due to storm?

Dan Rather: So far, we have no information here. Our reporters on the ground currently try to reach out to campaign and election officials to give us an update here. We previously heard from Democratic officials and Brown surrogates that they are checking legal options to include these ballots.

Walter Cronkite: To be honest, I don’t feel so comfortable making this call, although our team in the background feels comfortable Reagan carried Missouri. I mean, these numbers make it look very likely. Nonetheless, I hope it’s not premature.


11 p.m.

WEST COAST STATES: Too early to call

Dan Rather: Alright, Ladies and Gentlemen, it’s now eleven o’clock here at the East Coast. Polls at the West coast have now closed. All three of these states, California – with its 45 electoral votes the biggest prize of the night – most watched, Oregon and Washington state. CBS News considers all of them too early to call.

Walter Cronkite: As you said, California is watched the most here. It’s a very special situation in which both candidates come from the most populous state in the country and served as governor there. That last was the case in 1944 with Roosevelt and Dewey. Like California today, New York was the biggest prize of the night back then and considered a battleground. FDR in the end prevailed, obviously. From what we’re observing already, the state will be very close in the end. Early numbers already indicate that. We’re up for a long night. Dan, do we have an idea when California will be counted? We heard in advance from state officials they plan to count very quick this time?

Dan Rather: Yes, our reporters have spoken to the secretary of state, who assured us the counting process will be conducted quickly and professionally. We expect to have practically all votes counted in about two hours. Then we might actually call the entire election. As we check the electoral map, Ronald Reagan has expanded his lead even further. At 231 electoral votes, he’s gotten closer and closer to the magic 270.



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 231 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 158 EV.
Too early/close to call: 142 EV.
Polls not closed: 7 EV.


11.14 p.m.

BREAKING: GEORGIA called for BROWN; CONNECTICUT for REAGAN


Walter Cronkite: As the night progresses, more and more battleground calls come in. We have two more, one for each ticket. CBS News calls the state of Georgia for Jerry Brown, having narrowly edged out Ronald Reagan here in the final vote dump. We’re also calling Connecticut, after an usual long counting process: Ronald Reagan wins Connecticut, adding another eight votes to his tally. He’s at 239 now.

Dan Rather: Georgia is particularly interesting as it is the only state of the Deep South now backing Jerry Brown. A Democratic island if you will. Even though the final margin is very close and Brown only pulled ahead with the final vote dump from more Democratic leaning areas in Atlanta. With 99.8% of the vote in, his lead is just over 55,000 votes, out of over one and a half million cast. A few thousand votes are still outstanding, but there is no mathematical possibility for Ronald Reagan to overcome this deficit. We actually expect the margin to slightly grow. An important twelve electoral votes for the Democratic candidate. As for Connecticut, this is traditionally more of a Republican New England state that has emerged as key battleground. While we expect the Democrats to keep that senate seat, Ronald Reagan has narrowly won at the presidential level. According to our estimates, his margin will be somewhat just under 20,000 votes.

Walter Cronkite: Connecticut has a lot of wealthy voters and I’m sure several of them preferred Reagan’s tax policies, even if Jerry Brown may be a better cultural fit for the state.

Dan Rather: That is certainly correct. It will actually be interesting to see what a new president will do with tax policy. Both candidates proposed ambitious plans, though neither can be sure to get this through congress. Especially the senate. Both would rely on their experience in California and their vice presidents, who served in the senate. Or still do as of now.



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 239 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 170 EV.
Too early/close to call: 122 EV.
Polls not closed: 7 EV.


11.34 p.m.

BREAKING: REAGAN takes OHIO and IDAHO; CHURCH loses reelection to senate


Walter Cronkite: Ladies and Gentlemen, I have breaking news for you. We have three big calls to make, two at the presidential level. We’re not there yet to make a final call, but it this might actually be a deciding moment. Dan, tell us more.

Dan Rather: It may indeed be a deciding moment. CBS News is now certain that Ronald Reagan is the winner in the state of Ohio. Having further expanded his previous lead, we can now confirm his victory in this crucial battleground state. 25 electoral votes, nearly as much as Texas. This came at least not that surprising, given how much the Reagan campaign worked to gain the state. They even held their last rally in Ohio and not in California. And then, there’s another state: Idaho. CBS News also confirms Reagan’s victory here. A traditionally conservative-leaning state, though the Democrats hoped to win here with Frank Church on the ticket.

Walter Cronkite: And that gets us to the next call: Senator Frank Church, Governor Brown’s running mate, narrowly loses reelection to the senate. We remember that he also sought another term in the chamber as kind of backup. Nonetheless, we have received word that Church lost to his Republican challenger Steve Symms. An interesting pickup for the Republicans, although we can’t call senate control as of now. So far, Republicans have picked up Florida and South Dakota before, while Democrats gained New York. And Arizona is unexpectedly close, with Barry Goldwater fighting for another term here. He might actually lose.

Dan Rather: Well, Barry Goldwater is Democrats’ least concern now. At least he shouldn’t. I mean, if you look at the electoral map now, Reagan is on the edge of the presidency. 268 electoral votes. He just need one more state and is elected the 39th president. And we actually expect him to win at least Alaska. We’re not even talking about California any more here.

Walter Cronkite: That is actually stunning, Dan. Who would have expected this? We go to a quick break and then talk to our reporter in Sacramento at Brown Headqaurters.



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 268 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 170 EV.
Too early/close to call: 93 EV.
Polls not closed: 7 EV.


11.45 p.m.

CBS News: BROWN preparing concession, insiders say

Walter Cronkite: We are back with our coverage of election night. We want to talk to our reporter Steve in Sacramento, who’s at Brown Headquarters. Steve, you’re there with well over 800 guests watching election returns. What’s the mood there?

Reporter: Walter, Dan, the mood was pretty optimistic until about an hour ago. Disappointment was already felt after the Missouri call from our network came, though I need to add that other networks have not yet called Missouri. Nonetheless, the hall got very quiet when all major networks called Ohio in Reagan’s favor. You could almost feel the disappointment in that complete silence here. And then we saw tears when Idaho was not only called for Reagan, but the senate race there was given to the Republican. Senator Frank Church has a lot of supporters here, especially among younger people who saw a Brown/Church ticket as a dream team for renewable and good government reforms. I have talked to several younger volunteers here who already had tears in their eyes. There was one young man, 30, who already campaigned for Bobby Kennedy in 1972 and who was disappointed after that loss. He now says it feels ten times worse.

Walter Cronkite: That is quite understandable. Now you heard Governor Brown prepares to concede?

Reporter: Walter, we should treat this information with extreme caution. A campaign surrogate just told me that there are hot discussions within Brown’s inner circle about how to proceed. Some want Brown to prepare for a concession speech and a call to Reagan, while others, such as his Chief of Staff in the Governor’s Office Gray Davis, pressure him to hold this out as long as possible. Especially with that unclear situation in Missouri. Davis is actually pushing for legal steps as soon as tomorrow. Davis wants a court order that all provisional ballots will be counted. Another source telling me that they have run through the numbers and still believe that they can win Missouri by a few thousands votes. I can neither confirm nor deny these information.

Walter Cronkite: That sounds interesting. Thank you for that report. We certainly talk again.

Dan Rather: We can just hope this gets resolved soon. The question may still become less relevant if Reagan wins California. We still don’t know that yet. We again turn to a break and will be right back.

[Real Texan Politics]

I’ve got a gut feeling there’s gonna be a major surprise here…

[OSR stands with Israel]

This seems like it’s gonna be 2000 except the guy who retracts his concession wins

[President Johnson]

★★★ CBS Election Night Coverage continues. With Walter Cronkite & Dan Rather. ★★★






11.52 p.m.

BREAKING: CBS News RETRACTS call for MISSOURI





Walter Cronkite: Ladies and Gentlemen, we return from the break with a very important information: The state of Missouri just has updated its numbers again. And the update shows this race is still too close to call. Now, therefore, we feel compelled to take back the call for Ronald Reagan. So, that means we have to subtract twelve electoral votes from the Republican tally again. We sincerely apologize for that error and check out what led us to the premature call. It’s possible state officials wrongly submitted the latest update as the figures have changed now beyond the 20,000 votes that were just added in total.

Dan Rather: A stunning development, Walter. However, I always felt the call was premature since over a percentage point of the total vote was outstanding. Given how close the numbers are and that a majority of remaining votes are in more Democratic leaning areas, Reagan’s lead was never reliable enough. We just need to wait until all the votes are in. Possibly we even need clarification about these provisional ballots and whether they count or not. We were told that about 4,000 are in question.

Walter Cronkite: That are the numbers, according to the most recent update. Take a look:

MISSOURI (99.2% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 1,034,222 (49.65%)
Edmund G. Brown (D)… 1,032,972 (49.59%)

Walter Cronkite: Ronald Reagan’s lead has decreased to less than 1,300 votes. How many votes are outstanding, do we know that, Dan?

Dan Rather: Walter, our estimations say around 16,000 votes are left to be counted, of whom are around 4,000 provisional ballots. We don’t know whether they will finally be included or not. It’s very possible we might not know that for a while. So unless California goes for Reagan and finishes this election night with clear Reagan victory, we may not know a winner before the end of this week. It’s extremely likely we’re seeing a recount here. That can be conducted in two days or so, an election official told our reporters.

Walter Cronkite: So have around 16,000 or – depending on provisional ballots – 12,000 votes left for Governor Brown to overcome a 1,300 vote deficit. Given the areas these votes are left, this is possible.

Dan Rather: Yes, it’s definitely possible. But far from granted. If I were at Brown Headquarters, I’d certainly be relieved. At least for the moment. All summed up, I still think Reagan is a slight favorite to win the presidency. Way too early for predictions regardless. Updating our map, Reagan is still at 256 and way ahead. Brown is stuck at 170 electoral votes.



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 256 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 170 EV.
Too early/close to call: 105 EV.
Polls not closed: 7 EV.


12 a.m. – November 5

MIDNIGHT POLL CLOSINGS: ALASKA for REAGAN, HAWAII for BROWN; NEVADA called for REAGAN


Walter Cronkite: Good morning, I have to say right now. It is midnight, November 5 at the East Coast here in our New York City studios. If you just tuned in for whatever reason, we still don’t know who the next president will be, although Republican Ronald Reagan has a commanding lead in the electoral vote count. So, the final polls have now closed in the two states left. And we can already call them: CBS News calls the state of Alaska for Ronald Reagan, three additional electoral votes for him. Additionally, we call the state of Hawaii for Jerry Brown, giving him another four electoral votes. Small prices, but since this race is so close, they may very well make a difference in the end.

Dan Rather: They might, indeed. The same applies to the Silver State. We’re now calling the state of Nevada for Ronald Reagan. Three more electoral votes for him. We also project that Senator Paul Laxalt winning reelection to a second term. An important call for Republicans, as Laxalt is a close ally of Ronald Reagan.

Walter Cronkite: Speaking of Governor Reagan, we almost would have called him President-elect Reagan. Looking his current electoral count at 262, Missouri would have out him at 274 now. Now that the state is still in doubt, we’re not quite there yet. Senator Laxalt would for sure be a close ally to a Reagan White House.



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 262 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 174 EV.
Too early/close to call: 102 EV.


12.19 a.m.

BREAKING: BROWN takes ILLINOIS and SOUTH DAKOTA, slowly closing gap


Walter Cronkite: Alright, we have two more important calls coming in: According to our sources, Jerry Brown has carried the states of Illiniois and South Dakota. With 99.8% of the vote counted in Illinois, his advantage stands at 118,000 votes to be exact, which is no longer possible for Ronald Reagan to overcome.

Dan Rather: Although the polls already pointed in that direction, this is a major disappointment for Mr. Reagan because Illinois is - if not his homestate - his state of birth. He was born in Tampico, Illinois in 1911. His campaign heavily invested in the state and it looks like he got strong numbers from the Southern and Central part of the state. Nonetheless, Jerry Brown has massively overperformed in the Chicago area and in Springfield, giving him an advtage enough to take Illinois. The margin is larger than John Kennedy's in 1960, which was subject to rumors about voter fraud by former Mayor Daley's machine. So Mr. Brown won the state fair and sqaure by over percentage points. That keeps him in the race for this hour. And then we have South Dakota, which comes as kind of a surpirse, especially after George McGovern's loss.

Walter Cronkite: Indeed, it looks like Brown's messaging to help farmer resonated here. We saw the same in Iowa, which was already declared in his favor at poll closing. Brown's performance in the Midwest certainly offsets his underwhelming performance in the South. The eyes remain on California and Missouri in particular. Let's check the map before. As you can see, the Brown/Church has cleared 200 electoral votes now.




Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 262 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 204 EV.
Too early/close to call: 72 EV.


Dan Rather: Can we have an update for remaining battlegrounds, namely the West coast states? Let's see how things stand:

CALIFORNIA (76% in)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 3,387,081 (51.90%)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 3,088,835 (47.33%)

OREGON (85% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 501,240 (49.91%)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 479,849 (47.78%)

WASHINGTON STATE (81% in)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 753,937 (53.42%)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 642,864 (45.55%)


Dan Rather: Since several votes are outstanding in all these states, we need to add that Brown's lead in California has been declining for the past 45 minutes. The same is true in Washington. In Oregon, Reagan's lead was growing until the last update from ten minutes ago, when it substantiall decreased after Portland reporting. However, they're mostly done now. Several Reagan districts report only 75-80% of votes. We can't read a clear tendency in any of these numbers, not even in California, were North parts and the Bay Area have several votes left to count and where Brown is doing well. All of them will be close, although we think Brown has the upper hand in Washington. California remains a pure tossup.

Walter Cronkite: With that and more, we will be right back. Stay with us at this late hour.

[Joe Biden 2024]

Missouri's going to be this timeline's Florida, isn't it?

[America Needs R'hllor]

This is *really* good. I feel invested almost as if it's a real election night.

[Real Texan Politics]

My final prediction, and something tells me I may end up being right...

[Sir Mohamed]

Ugh, I enjoy reading this. When MO was called, I thought this race was done. Now it really looks like to be this TL's 2000 version with MO being FL.

My prediction is now the 270-268 map, too. And Raygun winning the NPV.

[OSR stands with Israel]

I assume I probably would be constantly flipping between the networks here to see what is going on and see what network is giving the fastest updates . My views probably would be very similar to George Will’s as well as I do think he was most prominent conservative pundit on tv in those days so I may decide to watch ABC as well

[President Johnson]

★★★ CBS Election Night Coverage continues. With Walter Cronkite & Dan Rather. ★★★





12.47 a.m.

BREAKING: BARRY GOLDWATER loses reelection to SENATE; DEMOCRATS keep MAJORITIES in CONGRESS



Walter Cronkite: Back with our coverage of election night 1980, we turn to congressional races for a moment and have some breaking news. The first is coming out of Arizona: CBS News is now projecting that Senator Barry Goldwater, long time conservative icon and 1964 Republican presidential nominee, has been defeated in his bid for another six year senate term. With 99.9% of the vote in, we project Senator Goldwater coming up short by about 8,000 votes against Democratic challenger, Businessman William R. Schultz. A stunning upset! Our reporters just told us that Barry Goldwater has called his opponent and conceded the race. Schultz then thanked Goldwater for his decades of service and wished him well.

Dan Rather: That’s in fact an upset. The third of the night after we already learned of George McGovern’s and Frank Church’s losses in their senate bids. This will be a very different senate coming in on January 3, 1981, without three long time senators being outspoken members of their parties. But who also gained national prominence in recent years.

Walter Cronkite: You name it, with McGovern and Church, you have two Democratic vice presidential nominees. The most recent vice presidential nominees, who both also ran for president in 1976 with more or less success. And with Goldwater and McGovern, you have two senators at the ideological ends of the senate and their caucuses. Both will no longer have a seat in the Capitol in just a few weeks.

Dan Rather: Nonetheless, neither of these losses were absolutely unpredictable looking at most recent campaign dynamics and available polling data. Especially Church and McGovern losses were always a possibility. With regard to Goldwater, it was at least a distinct possibility after his previously unknown challenger managed to put together a strong campaign operation and ran on his being as a businessman in contrast to Goldwater’s long tenure in politics. Certainly a message that resonated with enough Arizona voters who felt it was time for change. What’s also remarkable is that Schultz convinced enough Reagan voters to vote for him, as Reagan won the state fair and square. In South Dakota, the opposite happened: Voters decided to fire McGovern, but narrowly preferred Brown for president. Perhaps a deciding vote.



Walter Cronkite: Looking at congress, we can now also claim that the Democrats won enough races to maintain their majorities in both houses. According to our data, the Democrats keep at least 51 senate seats, with three more uncalled as of yet. We also project the Democrats at least 223 House seats, with about 20 more to call. In about half of these uncalled races, the Republican is currently ahead. So, a first major success for the Democrats tonight.

Dan Rather: While it’s definitely a success, it heavily looks like their majorities decreased. So if Jerry Brown still manages to win the presidency, he won’t have a rubber stamp congress just passing his agenda. Especially Southern Democrats may cause a Brown Administration to make concessions or seek Republican support to get things through. However, a possible President Reagan would also have to carefully maneuver his agenda through the capitol. He will have to compromise as well.

Walter Cronkite: I think in either outcome, the vice president will play a major role here. Baker and Church have the experience and connections at the Hill both Reagan and Brown lack. That’s why both were picked in the first place.


1.05 a.m.

BREAKING: BROWN wins WASHINGTON STATE; REAGAN takes OREGON – lifting Republican to 268 Electoral Votes


Walter Cronkite: Ladies and Gentlemen, midnight has long passed and we near a decision. By small steps. We’re now about the call two of the four states remaining.

Dan Rather: To all of those whose pulse just went up: It won’t bring a final decision, as we’re only calling the two smaller states in terms of electoral votes. So, CBS News is calling the state of Washington to Jerry Brown. Pivotal nine more electoral votes go into the Democratic column. CBS is also calling the state of Oregon in favor of Ronald Reagan. These are six additional votes for the Republican ticket, bringing their total number of collected votes to 268. One short of a tie and two short of victory. With close to 100% in, Brown’s advantage in Washington stands at around 74,000 votes, which is just over three percentage points. In Oregon, Reagan leads by less than 4,000 in the final count. A substantial drop from our last update, as Brown-leaning precincts were just reported in the previous 30 minutes. Nevertheless, it wasn’t quite enough for Brown to take the lead. So Reagan wins Oregon 49.19% to 49.04%. A razor thin margin.

Walter Cronkite: What an election night. That many close states, just won by a few thousand votes here and there. So Governor Reagan just has to win one more state and become president-elect. He could close the deal with California. Or with Missouri, where we still wait for updates after the previous update. Dan, we might actually reach a situation where Missouri decides the election. After all the news of the day, we might be up for a long election week.

Dan Rather: That’s why Republicans hope just to get this over with in California. I’m hearing we might get a call in the coming hour. Brown’s lead there continues to melt, as expected. The question is only whether it holds or not?



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 268 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 213 EV.
Too early/close to call: 57 EV.


1.24 a.m.

BREAKING: BROWN edges out narrow VICTORY in CALIFORNIA; MISSOURI to decide election



Walter Cronkite: Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a major, major development: An incoming call that fundamentally changes this race for president. The swing state of the swing states: 45 electoral votes at stake, with the current and former governor facing off in an epic battle for the White House. So, CBS News is projecting, that Governor Edmund J. Brown Jr. – serving as chief executive since 1975, has won his homestate of California. He beats his predecessor in the governor’s chair for the biggest electoral prize of the night. And with this, Brown prevents an outright Reagan victory. Dan, what can you tell us about California?

Dan Rather: Walter, the counting process was almost like a Hollywood Thriller itsself. Brown started off with this early and strong lead, at 50% counted he was ahead by over 600,000, that declined to 300,000 with 75% in. At 90% counted, Brown’s lead was down 180,000 votes. Reagan was steadily closing the gap, always hoping to overtake his challenger and finally winning the presidency with a solid electoral victory. Remember this would have gotten Reagan well over 300 electoral votes in the end. A solid victory. Now, these hopes have completely evaporated with this call. While a few thousands ballots are still outstanding, Reagan would have to win nearly 95% for coming close to something like a tie. Given these ballots left come from both Brown and Reagan districts, we have concluded that this is virtually impossible. The percentages you see will pretty match the final result for California. Let’s take a look:

CALIFORNIA (99.6% in)
✓ Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 4,203,695 (49.15%)
Ronald Reagan (R)... 4,173,725 (48.80%)


Dan Rather: That’s a difference of roughly 30,000 votes. Less than 40,000 votes are left to be included, coming from swing districts that were narrowly won by either candidate. So even the most pro-Republican estimations have Reagan down by at least 20,000 votes in the end. Our analysts back studio think Brown will win California by around 25,000. But a win is a win, and in this case a hard fought win. Maybe even kind of a gratification for the Brown family, after Reagan ousted then-Governor Pat Brown, Jerry's father, in the 1966 election.

Walter Cronkite: But we could see a recount here, just has in Oregon or South Dakota?

Dan Rather: You’re correct, Walter, it’s actually likely there will be a recount. Nonetheless, while the margin percentage-wise is very close in such a large state, 25,000 or 30,000 votes is still too much to expect a different result here. In recounts, we’re talking about differences in the hundreds. A recount is very unlikely to change the outcome of the state. For our Republican viewers, unfortunately I have to say. So don’t get your hopes up here.

Walter Cronkite: Puh, so the election comes down to Missouri. Check the map:



Former Governor Ronald Reagan (R-CA)/Senator Howard Baker (R-TN): 268 EV.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D-CA)/Senator Frank Church (D-ID): 258 EV.
Too early/close to call: 12 EV.


CBS: MISSOURI remains in DOUBT, REAGAN on track to win NATIONAL POPULAR VOTE

Dan Rather: So, Ladies and Gentlemen, we are at a point where one state will decide the election. It seems like it’s the closest state in the nation. Walter, you have just talked to our reporters on the ground, what news came out of Missouri?

Walter Cronkite: Dan, I just had multiple telephone conversations with our reporters in St. Louis and Kansas City. All we know so far is that we don’t know who won the state since the question which ballots will be counted remains open. You remember the provisional ballots cast by voters coming in late due to the storm? We’re told that according to current count – which will show in a minute – Reagan is slightly ahead after his lead further and further decreased with the counting process ongoing. However, it’s now so close that these provisional ballots could make a pivotal difference. Outgoing governor Kit Bond still insists they shouldn’t count for legal reasons. The incoming governor says the opposite, though he has no formal authority until January. Democratic officials are weighing legal options and may fill a lawsuit as soon as this morning. What I can say: There won’t be call for Missouri this night. I guess everybody has to take a deep breath, get some sleep and then carefully consider how to proceed later today.

Dan Rather: Can we show the numbers for Missouri, please? And also the national popular vote, which is nearly 99% in now? We can project that Ronald Reagan very likely has won the popular vote nationwide. At least a plurality wanted him to be the next president.

MISSOURI (99.9% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 1,042,479 (49.76%)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 1,042,060 (49.74%)

NATIONAL POPULAR VOTE (98.8% in)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 41,822,387 (49.39%)
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 41,305,852 (48.78%)


Walter Cronkite: Absolutely astonishing how narrow that is! 219 votes difference. So this is all about around 4,000 provisional ballots still in doubt. Brown needs to net out 220 votes from these to win the presidency with just 270 electoral votes. Reagan meanwhile has won the popular vote nationwide, as Dan said. However, that’s irrelevant, as we elect the president indirectly. If he were to win Missouri, he’d win the presidency with 280 electoral votes.

Dan Rather: Exactly. We expect these provisional ballots to be more Brown than Reagan votes. It’s just not clear by how much. If we assume they look similar to the prescient they come from, Brown may have a small edge. However, it’s pure speculation. Even if they get counted in the end, there is certainly going to be a recount. And unlike California, results might actually differ.

Walter Cronkite: I want to turn to our reporters in both campaign headquarters in California now. We start with Jonathan, who is at Reagan HQ for us. What can you tell us?

Reporter I: Walter, the mood was pretty good until about an hour ago. Supporters were convinced this thing was over after Missouri and Ohio were called. After Missouri was retracted by our network – others didn’t call the state – the optimism begun to fade away. It’s not that the joy over Reagan’s performance is completely gone, but you can absolutely feel how nervous everyone is. Especially after California falling for Brown. And I just heard that Ronald Reagan will not address the crowd this night. He is expected to give a speech this morning. That certainly tells us Missouri and the presidency won’t be called in the next hours.

Walter Cronkite: Thank you. Let’s also bring in our reporter Mike, who’s at Brown HQ. I would assume the opposite happened there?

Reporter II: Walter, we saw Brown supporters that already left the party earlier return after Missouri was no longer in Reagan’s column, and even more just now as California’s call came in. Wild applause and Brown chants erupted after he was declared the winner in California. I mean, many people here already begun to bury their dreams of a Brown presidency, and now they’re back in the game. Like Reagan, neither Jerry Brown nor Frank Church are expected to speak in public before the morning or afternoon of this November 5. However, my colleague had an opportunity to talk to Brown confidant Gray Davis, who said the campaign is preparing a lawsuit in Missouri to include these provisional ballots. They believe to emerge victorious once all votes are counted.

Walter Cronkite: Thank you very much, also. Now, I’d also like to thank our viewers as we finish or election night coverage for the moment. Dan and I will have some sleep and we will return at 9.30 a.m. and continue to inform you with election news, reactions and much more. We see as soon. Thank you, and now get some sleep. Good night.

Dan Rather: Good night from me as well. We see us.

[😥]

Great update, as always!

[OSR stands with Israel]

The Missouri Bellwether actually will decide the whole ball game this time which is insane as its basically a combination of Florida and Ohio from the 2000s(Florida being the super close deciding state and Ohio the Bellwether).

[Kahane's Grave Is A Gender-Neutral Bathroom]

Hopefully Reagan pulls it off.

[Fetterman my beloved]

I’d love for a timeline when the Republican Party becomes the party leading the charge in the abolition of the electoral college.

[Captain Chaos]

Missouri. The Show Me State.

[Sir Mohamed]

Ugh, this looks great.

My prediction:

December 12, 1980: Reagan concedes presidency after losing MO by 537 votes, won't challenge SCOTUS ruling

[President Johnson]

★★★ CBS Election Coverage continues. With Walter Cronkite & Dan Rather. ★★★






9.30 a.m.

CBS Special Report: Brown campaign files lawsuit in state court



Walter Cronkite: Good morning to our viewers on this Wednesday, November the 5th. CBS News is back for more on the presidential election, which remains undecided. Dan, you have talked to our reporters on the ground in Missouri about the latest developments. What can you tell us?

Dan Rather: Good morning from me, too. Well, Walter, we just have a very important new development from St. Louis: Local Democratic officials and the Brown campaign just filed a lawsuit at a state court to include the provisional ballots that were put aside yesterday. Here we are talking about ballots from voters arriving at polling stations late after the storm. That’s a number of around 4,000, which may alter the final outcome. Ronald Reagan may have won the popular vote nationwide, but in Missouri he is currently ahead just over 200 votes. If Brown were to net a number of votes larger than this lead, he would indeed win the presidency. So there’s a lot at stake here and we might see one side continuing this legal battle after the court has ruled. It may not be the final say here.

Walter Cronkite: When can we expect a decision?

Dan Rather: I’m hearing that the state court in St. Louis will decide within days. Should the ruling be challenged by the losing side, a final word may take even longer. Not to mention a recount starting as soon as tomorrow. So that may change a few votes as well. Certification deadline is in December. So until then the state has to award its twelve electoral votes to one ticket. There is a possibility this will last through the whole month of November. Nobody knows yet when we will have a president-elect.

Walter Cronkite: Thank you, so it seems indeed we’re up for an election week. Not to mention the recounts about to begin in a couple of very close states. Among these, of course, California. However, we don’t expect a change it outcome there. Or anywhere else. And just now we directly turn to Reagan Headquarters, as the Governor Reagan is about to talk to the nation. We will later directly turn to Brown Headquarters, too, as Governor Brown is expected to issue a statement as well.


9.45 a.m.

Ronald Reagan addresses election outcome



Ronald Reagan: Thank very much, friends. Thank you, for the warm welcome and all your support in recent hours. It’s been a long night for all of his. Nancy and I got a little bit of sleep as the returns came in. In particular, I want to thank Howard Baker first and foremost his determination and relentless support in these hours of uncertainty. Now, let me say this: I’m incredibly proud of what we have accomplished. We won at least, at least 268 electoral votes. And won the national popular vote to be the next president of the United States. Now, nonetheless, not all electoral votes have been allocated and therefore we have to wait a few more days to know the end result. I am very confident that Howard Baker and I will end up winning this election. So that we can do what the majority American people send us to do. I will not comment on the counting process or potential legal issues, which will be reviewed by our team closely. Let me close by also congratulating my opponent. Governor Brown has run a remarkably strong campaign and inspired many young Americans with his campaign. We ought to pay respect to these voters and I look forward to be the president for all Americans, should the election turn out as we expect. Thank you all very much.

Reporter: Governor, did you have a chance to talk to Governor Brown?

Ronald Reagan: Not yet. We just received an invitation to a telephone call from the White House later today. With the president and the governor. I look forward to the conversation. Thank you.



10.30 a.m.

Jerry Brown addresses election outcome



Jerry Brown: Thank you all very much! What a night! A longer night than we all anticipated. I know you all were waiting for me to say something and I’m delighted to address the nation as we enter a phase of transition. The situation requires us to be prepared for either victory or defeat in this campaign. We certainly wish the former, and I can assure the American people we’re ready. We’re ready to take responsibility for our nation. My immediate focus will be on making sure we have an accurate election result in Missouri and all votes counted accordingly. I have confidence in local authorities to resolve this difficult situation neither myself nor Governor Reagan wanted. With that being said, we fully respect the process to work its way through and I want to comment as little in public as possible. It’s not up for me to do so. On a closing note, I again want to thank the many millions of voters who put their trust in me and Frank Church, who’s an outstanding running mate. I also want to thank the voters of Governor Reagan, who exercised their fundamental right. Let me be clear: I hear you, and I have the opportunity to serve as president, you will have my back. Thank you all.

Reporter: Sir, governor, would you comment on the lawsuit…

Jerry Brown: No comment. I don’t think it would be appropriate. Things will eventually work out just fine. Thanks.


12.30 p.m.

President Gerald Ford reacts to presidential election results



At the White House, the president went before the cameras and gave an address.

President Gerald Ford: My fellow Americans: If anyone still doubted each and every vote matters, last night has put these doubts to rest. First of all, I want to thank all my fellow countrymen who participated in this election, which is the essence of our democracy and separates us from many other nations. Secondly, I want to congratulate Governor Jerry Brown and Governor Ronald Reagan to their enormously inspiring campaigns that brought so many Americans from all walks of life into the process. Both of you truly are in for something bigger than yourself. About 45 minutes ago, I had the opportunity to talk to both leaders via phone and expressed my desire to work with them in the coming days and make sure the democratic process works out its course. Both candidates have reassured me and expressed their openness to work with my team to make sure any transition takes place smoothly. I can ensure the American people and the world that the federal government fully functions and will continue to do so until January 20 and beyond.

I have also talked to local and state officials in Missouri and all of them assured me the counting process would be conducted in accordance with the law and without political inference. I hereby want to use this opportunity to urge my fellow countrymen to have the same confidence in the process and be patient so that it can property work out. The election campaign is over and now we need to come together as one nation. Both Governor Brown and Reagan expressed their full agreement here. As president, I will also not interfere in any kind or manner in Missouri. My entire focus is on guiding this nation through the next weeks until a new president is inaugurated. Thank you very much and have a good day.


Congressional results

United States senate elections



(Incumbents base on the results of the 1974 election in this TL)




52 Democrats* (▼); 48 Republicans (▲)
DEMOCRATIC CONTROL

* includes one Independent caucusing with Democrats (Harry F. Bryd Jr. (I-VA))

Democratic gains: AZ, NY, OR
Republican gains: FL, GA, ID, SD


Pickups and notable races

Alabama
✓ Albert Brewer (D, inc.): 50.9%
Jeremiah Denton (R): 47.5%

Arizona
✓ William Schultz (D): 49.4%
Barry Goldwater (R, inc.): 49.1%

California
✓ Alan Cranston (D, inc.): 58.1%
Paul Glenn (R): 40.1%

Colorado
✓ Gary Hart (D, inc.): 51.0%
Mary E. Buchanan (R): 48.1%

Florida
✓ Paula Hawkins (R): 50.0%
Richard Stone (D, inc.): 48.8%

Georgia
✓ Mack Mattingly (R): 50.2%
Herman Talmadge (D, inc.): 49.5%

Idaho
✓ Steve Symms (R): 49.7%
Frank Church (D, inc.): 49.1%

Indiana
✓ Birch Bayh (D, inc.) 51.0%
J. Danforth Quayle (R): 46.6%

Indiana
✓ John Culver (D, inc.) 50.5%
Tom Stoner (R): 47.5%

Kentucky
✓ Wendell Ford (D, inc.) 66.7%
Mary Foust (R): 30.9%

Nevada
✓ Paul Laxalt (R, inc.): 52.8%
Mary Gojak (D): 44.0%

New York
✓ Elizabeth Holzman (D): 48.8%
Al D'Amato (R): 43.7%%
Jacob Javits (Liberal, inc.): 7.5%

Oregon
✓ Ted Kulongoski (D): 48.4%
Bob Packwood (R, inc.): 47.7%%

South Dakota
✓ James Abdnor (R): 53.3%
George McGovern (D, inc.): 45.4%


House of Representatives elections



229 Democrats (▼ 5); 206 Republicans (▲ 5)
DEMOCRATIC CONTROL


Congressional leadership will be listed upon the new congress' opening on January 3, 1979.

[MR DARK BRANDON]

Give me Jerry Brown or give me death

[President Johnson]

November 6, 1980

BREAKING: MISSOURI STATE COURT DECIDES TO INCLUDE PROVISIONAL BALLOTS, GOV. BOND OBJECTS



Breaking News out of Missouri: A state court in St. Louis decided to include the provisional ballots into the state count. “Local authorities may grant an extension of poll openings in case of serious events such as heavy weather. Therefore, ballots submitted after that deadline shall be counted as valid votes”, a judge wrote in his decision. “Not including votes that were submitted up to an hour later through no fault of their own [voters] would be an unlawful infringement of voting rights”, the statements continues to read.



Local Democratic officials quickly came to praise the decision. A Brown spokeswoman thanked the judge for upholding basic democratic standards. A spokesman for the Reagan campaign said that this matter may need review by a higher state court or the Missouri Supreme Court. However, Governor Bond’s chief of staff quickly came out in opposition to the decision. “We respect the judge’s opinion, but the governor continues to believe his order not to include provisional ballots was lawful. Therefore, we will appeal to the decision. The governor will not sign any certification for this state before a recount is conducted successfully and his order is finally confirmed or rejected by a high court.”

Governor-elect Teasdale, a Democrat, and Missouri’s entire Democratic congressional delegation, firmly criticized Bond for his decision to challenge to ruling. “The outgoing governor needs to concede that his decision on Election Day was wrong. Just as the judge made clear. Jerry Brown won Missouri and the presidency”, Teasdale told a reporter.

After inclusion of the provisional ballots, the updated Missouri vote count looks as follows:

MISSOURI
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D)… 1,044,643 (49.75%)
Ronald Reagan (R)… 1,044,419 (49.74%)

If the ruling is held up and the recount doesn’t put Reagan ahead again, Jerry Brown would be elected president by just over 200 votes.


Attorney General Brooke: Federal government will not interfere in any manner



Just hours after the court ruling in Missouri, U.S. Attorney General Edward Brooke issued a statement, saying that the federal government will not interfere in any manner. “This is a state issue and the federal government will not get involved. We have complete confidence in local officials and state courts to make sure all votes are counted according to the law”, the Attorney General said. A White House spokesman confirmed Brooke’s remarks and that they were made with approval of President Gerald Ford. The president has repeatedly stressed the need to let local officials make the decisions and continued his talks with Reagan and Brown confidants to assure a smooth transition of power regardless of the final outcome.

A spokesman of the Brown campaign expressed support for Brooke’s remarks and added that the White House if fully cooperating with the team. A spokesman of the Reagan campaign declined to comment but previously confirmed contacts with White House officials to be prepared to take over the reins of government should Reagan be declared winner.


Recounts in Missouri, California, Oregon, South Dakota to begin



Missouri wasn’t the only close state: On this November 6, California, Oregon and South Dakota formally begun recounts for the presidential election. Jerry Brown won California by just about 25,000 votes in the end, which is less than 0.3% (49.12% to 48.84%). In South Dakota, he defeated Reagan by a slim 0.7% margin, just about 3,000 votes. In Oregon, Reagan emerged victorious by a margin of just over 0.1%, an advantage of less than 2,000 raw votes. Other states like Connecticut and Georgia were pretty close as well, though the margin is larger than 0.5%, therefore not qualifying for a recall.

A different result in any of these three states would put the race upside down, but political analysts say the difference raw votes in each state except Missouri is too large for another outcome to become a realistic scenario.


November 7, 1980: Reagan and Brown name transition chairs as election hangs in the balance



The election may not be decided, but on the morning of November 7, Reagan officially named his vice presidential running mate, Senator Howard Baker, head of the transition team. Baker is assigned to extend cooperation with the Ford White House and begin to vet first senior officials for a potential Reagan Administration, including cabinet secretaries. Rumor swirling around indicate Reagan is inclined to at least keep two or three member of the Ford Administration in their position. Which ones was not specified (only Richard Nixon confirmed to retire before the election).



Just hours later, at noon, Brown aide and former Chief of Staff Gray Davis appeared before the press and informed the public about his appointment to chair the Brown transition team. “We’re in close contact with the White House, I just had a productive call with Donald Rumsfeld”, Davis said. “With deep respect to the process in Missouri, we’re not getting ahead of ourselves here. Governor Brown only wants to make sure we’re fully ready should the call finally come.” Davis is widely believed to become Brown’s Chief of Staff should the former become president. Davis declined to comment on the matter and said that cabinet picks won’t be announced before the election is called. However, he announced that Governor Robert F. Kennedy will take a role in the transition and make recommendations for appointments. It’s unclear whether Kennedy would again return to Washington, as he has to decide whether he seeks a third term in Albany in 1982.

[President Johnson]

November 8, 1980

BREAKING: MISSOURI APPEALS COURT rules in favor of GOV. BOND, BROWN CAMPAIGN to file lawsuit at STATE SUPREME COURT



Bombshell out of Missouri: An Appeals Court sided with outgoing Governor Kit Bond on the election controversy that may decide the outcome of the 1980 presidential election. In a 2-1 decision, the court overturned a previous decision to include around 4,000 provisional ballots from the St. Louis area into the final count. While not explicitly declaring the ballots invalid or extended opening times for poll stations unlawful, the two judges grant the governor formal authority over the matter. The ruling actually came as a surprise to many political observers, who actually expected the previous decision to be upheld. Without further challenge from Bond, this would finally have put Jerry Brown over the finish line. As soon as the ruling became public, over 1,200 protesters spontaneously gathered before the court building and demanded the provisional ballots to count. A handful showed banners demanding the governor’s immediate resignation.

The Brown campaign immediately released a statement with strong criticism of the decision and announced a lawsuit at the state’s Supreme Court. Governor-elect Teasdale also expressed his criticism and proposed modifications to the election law. Later the day, vice presidential nominee Frank Church spoke to a journalist. “We believe that this ruling is wrong because the governor is the proper authority to decide which votes are counted and which aren’t. I can promise to all of you that we will fight to make sure nobody’s ballot is disenfranchised. The majority of Missouri voters picked Jerry Brown. Governor Bond and Mr. Reagan should accept that”, the Idaho senator said.

Ronald Reagan, who had not appeared in public since his speech on the morning after, declined to comment, though a surrogate of his campaign welcomed the ruling.


November 12, 1980: Incident in Persian Gulf has US Destroyer attack Iranian boats; Teheran threatens response as Ford orders additional military presence



The drama around the presidential election has shifted public attention from the Middle East for a while. However, on November 11, a British cargo ship on its way from India to Europe issued an emergency call after Iranian combat boats neared the ship in international waters in Persian Gulf. A US Destroyer that was just 60 miles away briefly picked up the call and attempted to block the boats from getting closer to the cargo ship. After repeated communication attempts and warnings were unsuccessful, the admiral in charge opened fired on the Iranian boats. One of the four sunk, all men could be saved by the other boats. The Iranian boats subsequently returned into Iranian waters and the British ship could resume its course. A spokesman for Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher publically thanked the US Forces and Ford Administration for the assistance.

After the incident, the Iranian government formally submitted a complaint at the UN. The Soviet government formally criticized the American response and initially planned to submit a symbolic resolution against the US in Security Council. However, White House sources report that a call between President Ford and Secretary General Brezhnev resolved the issue without further actions. Regardless, the Iranians were quick in putting out another statement, accusing the UK and US of violating their territorial sovereignty and threatened a harsh response. Secretary of State Richard Nixon immediately responded: “A blatant case of misinformation. The Iranians tried to intimate a civil British ship in International waters and our forces helped to prevent such a violation of international law”, he told a reporter. Nixon added that any hostile action by the regime in Teheran would be met with a strong response. “I want to make it pretty clear: The US government is fully functioning, even if we’re yet about to declare a winner of the election.”

On November 13, President Gerald Ford issued a decree to increase US military presence in the Persian Gulf and both endings of the Red Sea. The following day, the president signed another memorandum for the Treasury Department to evaluate additional sanctions on Iran.


November 14, 1980: Pat Brown rumored to leave Supreme Court soon



As his son might soon take over as president, Supreme Court Associate Justice Pat Brown is rumored to leave the bench rather sooner than later to avoid any potential conflicts of interest. Some reports indicate he already wanted to leave under the next Democratic president. Rumors began to circulate after an informal meeting at the White House with President Ford. The 75 year old former California governor (1959-67) has been at the nation’s highest court since 1969 following his appointment by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson.

It’s not clear when exactly Brown would formally retire and whether his son would chose his successor. Things would change in case Ronald Reagan wins the presidency, though. Some in the media raised the possibility to retire as soon as early December and allow President Ford to fill the seat. So far, Ford didn’t have a Supreme Court vacancy since taking over the presidency from Nelson Rockefeller in May 1979.


November 17, 1980: Missouri Supreme Court to decide election case by early December



The Missouri Supreme Court formally picked up the election case Bond v. St. Louis. A spokesman for the court now informed the public about the deadline: Accordingly, the state’s highest court plans to announce its decision sometime in early December. Under that timeline, Missouri could deliver its formal election certificate to congress in time, allowing a president and vice president duly elected by electors in late December and announced in congress in January.

After the lawsuit was formally submitted in November 9, oral arguments are being heard from November 19.

Both the Reagan and Brown campaigns welcomed the statement.