[Disclaimer: this is my first US-centric timeline in a long time, and my first focusing on some not-so-recent history. I don't know the ins and outs of economic policy of the era, nor do I know as much as some as to the social and political life of the eras in question. While trying to make this as interesting and plausible as possible, some things may be less than plausible. Be nice.]
On the Verge of Ruin: PreludeBenjamin Harrison/Levi Morton (R) 47.8% winning 233 EVsGrover Cleveland/Allen Thurman (D) 48.6% winning 168 EVsOthers 3.6%
Despite narrowly losing the popular vote, President Cleveland was narrowly defeated by Republican Benjamin Harrison thanks to narrow loses in New York and Indiana. The election campaign had been dominated by the issue of tariffs, with Republicans and their industrialist backers attacking Cleveland, perhaps falsely, as an advocate of "free trade" and low tariffs. Republicans, backed by industry and big business, advocated a high tariff to protect burgeoning American industry.
Congressional ElectionsSenate:Republicans: 51 (+12)Democrats: 37 (nc)House of Representatives:Republicans: 179 (+27)Democrats: 152 (-15)Labor: 1 (-1)
With Republicans now holding a majority in the House, the Republicans and their argument for tariffs had won the day.
[also, updates will be intermittent. I have more important stuff to do]
