The liberal Republic

[Joe Biden 2024]

Personally, I think Muskie's going to go with a Midwesterner for VP.

[President Johnson]

June 9/10, 1976: Humphrey kills potential Nixon investigation and strucks budget deal with Rockefeller



President Nelson Rockefeller, seated in the Oval Office with Vice President Gerald Ford and members of the press, announced an agreement with the congressional leadership

On June 9, 1976, Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey announced that he would not support any senate investigation of Richard Nixon and a potential violation of the Hatch Act. The secretary of state got under pressure after criticzing George McGovern at a Republican event in April, were he was invited as honorable speaker. A group of Democratic senators, including McGovern himself, accused Nixon of ethical wrongdoing under the statute.

The next day, President Rockefeller and Vice President Ford held a meeting with congressional leaders on the 1976/77 federal budget. After hours of consultations in the White House, an agreement was reached: the president approved increased aid for farmers and other social programs the senate leader asked for. Humphrey seemed very pleased with the deal he got; Vice President Ford noted that the agreement prevented a budget fight over the campaign season. "In addition, it is agreat sign that the administration and a congressional majority can deliver results in an election year", President Rockefeller added.

Although publically denied by both sides, public observers and even Democrats around McGovern accused Rockefeller and Humphrey of a deal: Humphrey would prevent any investigation of Nixon, who had strong backing from the White House, in exchange of a budget deal favorable to Humphrey.


June 24, 1976: Lloyd Bentsen rules out vice presidential nomination



Senator Lloyd Bentsen devotes himself to his reelection bid in the senate, ruling out to be Edmund Muskie's running mate

Lloyd Bentsen surprised everyone with his strong showing the primaries. And although he fell short in the end, many observers thought he would be angling for the vice presidential spot. For both Muskie and McGovern, he would have provided geographical ticket balance and proved to be a formidable campaigner who set up a national infrastructure. But on June 24, the Texan announced he was not interested in the position. Instead, he would focus on his reelection bid for the senate this year in an effort to keep the upper chamber in Democratic hands.

Others mentioned for the vice presidential nomination, but declined:
- Former Georgia Governor and 1972 vice presidential nominee Jimmy Carter
- Alabama Senator Albert Brewer
- California Senator Alan Cranston
- Florida Senator Lawton Chiles
- Washington Senator Scoop Jackson
- California Governor Jerry Brown
- Ohio Senator John Glenn
- Former Secretary of State Nicholas Katzenbach
- West Virginia Senator and Majority Whip Robert Byrd
- Kentucky Senator Wendell Ford
- Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy
- Former Attorney General Ramsey Clark
- Representative and House Majority Leader Tip O'Neill


BONUS: The Democratic vice presidential selection



As various reports confirmed, the Muskie campaign considers, ahead of the Democratic National Convention, the following individuals for the vice presidential nomination.


Morris Udall



Age: 54
Homestate: Arizona
Experience: Member of the House of Representatives since 1961
Why he is considered: Morris Udall, better known as “Mo”, has been an unsuccessful contender for the Democratic nomination. After he dropped out, he quickly endorsed Ed Muskie’s candidacy. As a vice presidential candidate, he would bring geographical balance to the ticket lead by Muskie. Whether that is enough to flip Arizona, however, remains doubtful. He’s also known as a straight shooter, well connected in the House and ideologically within the Democratic mainstream. He would be a safe choice for vice president.


Reubin Askew



Age: 47
Homestate: Florida
Experience: Governor of Florida since 1971, member of the Florida State Senate 1962–1966, member of the Florida House of Representatives 1958–1962
Why he is considered: Reubin Askew has been described as one of the best running mates for Edmund Muskie; both by political insiders and journalists. High-ranking Democrats such as Alabama Senator Albert Brewer openly proponents his nomination. Askew brings several strengths to the ticket: He is a southern governor very popular in a critical state, a state that elected him governor twice with large majorities. In addition to geographical balance, he also brings executive experience as governor to the table (although Muskie has also been governor of Maine). However, whether Askew’s popularity in the Sunshine State could swing enough voters into the Democratic column there is another matter. In no other ex-confederate state, President Rockefeller is more popular. He won the state convincingly in 1972 and even upset Ronald Reagan in the primary that year.


Frank Church



Age: 52
Homestate: Idaho
Experience: U.S. Senator from Idaho since 1957
Why he is considered: Like Mo Udall, Frank Church is a former rival for the Democratic nomination who dropped out in March and went on to endorse Edmund Muskie right after. Church is a well-respected colleague in the senate known for personal integrity. Almost twenty years of political experience and credentials in domestic and foreign policy make him someone who is highly qualified for the second highest job in the federal government. In addition, he has proven to be popular among rural voters with a solid base of support in the Rocky Mountains. However, he has far less name recognition outside this region and his homestate of Idaho is hardly relevant in the general election. Church may be a bigger asset in actual governing rather than bringing in more votes.


George McGovern



Age: 54
Homestate: South Dakota
Experience: U.S. Senator from South Dakota since 1963, Member of the House of Representatives 1957–1961
Why he is considered: Nominating George McGovern for the vice presidential spot would benefit one cause in particular: Party unity. The runner up to the nomination, who campaigned to the left of Muskie, has a large base of the support among Democrats. Many of them are still bitter at Muskie and the congressional leadership for working against their standard bearer in the background. Offering the second spot to him would send a signal of welcome to the McGovern base, which stood behind him ever since RFK’s defeat in 1972. Additionally, McGovern proved to be a fair campaigner with Midwestern appeal and has enough Washington experience to fill the job of vice president. However, his relationship with Muskie for many years has been lukewarm. What may pose the biggest risk with McGovern is him turning off more moderate voters, Muskie badly needs to oust Rocky. Behind closed doors, circles around McGovern made it known the senator is actually interested in the vice presidential spot.


Walter Mondale



Age: 48
Homestate: Minnesota
Experience: U.S. Senator from Minnesota since 1964, Minnesota Attorney General 1960–1964
Why he is considered: Walter Mondale is hardly known outside the Mid-West, but he has earned credentials in the senate by working on various policy fields. What speaks for him is his age (he’s 16 years younger than Muskie) and may help in the Mid-West and Great Plains. He is a safe choice for vice president, but has not much name recognition. He is also close to Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey, who is his fellow senator from Minnesota. Mondale definitely fits the rule "do no harm".


Julian Carroll



Age: 45
Homestate: Kentucky
Experience: Governor of Kentucky since 1974, Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky 1971–1974
Why he is considered: He is the dark horse on Ed Muskie’s list: Kentucky Governor Julian Carroll. He became governor in 1974 by succeeding Wendell Ford, who won a seat in the senate that year. In 1975, he won reelection to the governorship by a wide margin. If nominated for vice president, Carroll can – despite his brief governing experience – help the Democratic ticket in the South and Appalachia. Further Pros on Carroll are his relatively young age and being a fresh face at the national level. Cons, of course, are the low of name recognition outside of Kentucky and his lack of experience in national politics, especially foreign affairs.


On the Republican side, President Nelson Rockefeller already confirmed last year that Vice President Gerald Ford would again be his running mate.

[Joe Biden 2024]

Among that shortlist, I think Muskie will pick either Udall or Mondale.

[President Johnson]

June 26, 1976: A drama on the vice presidential pick: Sources report Mo Udall is the choice but campaign denies decision has been made



Is Mo Udall now the vice presidential pick of Edmund Muskie or not? The Washington Post has received word he is, but the Muskie campaign denies.

On June 26, the Washington Post reported that former presidential candidate and Congressman Mo Udall of Arizona was Edmund Muskie?s choice for vice president, citing sources within the campaign. However, this came as major surprise as Senator Muskie himself during an interview two days before told CBS he would announce his decision right before the Democratic National Convention. After the report was out and even some other newspapers falsely reported Muskie even introduced Udall as his running mate, the Muskie campaign quickly came out to deny the report. ?Senator Muskie has not made a determination on Mr. Udall or any other potential nominee for vice president. Mr. Udall is among the group of people being considered, but the selection process as of today is not finished. Senator Muskie will stand by his word announce his decision in the second week of July?, an official statement reads. Mo Udall himself denied to comment. According to the Muskie campaign, he would meet the presumptive nominee in person later this month.

Who exactly went out with the information was unclear at this point. The Washington Post refused to acknowledge any wrongdoings, saying that an official message from the Muskie campaign was sent to the newspaper. However, the damage was already there as the vice presidential selection is usually an opportunity to boost a campaign. A Democratic operative commented on CBS: ?Muskie now has to pick someone else. Because if he goes with Udall after the denial, everyone will ask the question what the heck this was. Why postponing the announcement? why this back and forth? In the public?s eye, it won?t make sense to go with Udall after this and paint Senator Muskie an indecisive man, because this is not what voters are looking for in a president. Ed has yet to demonstrate he has the strenght to be the leader of the free world?.

On June 29, the New York Times wrote that Muskie had secretary decided on Udall but a staffer leaked the info in advance to the Washington Post. According to the Times, Muskie is now reconsidering his decision following the Post?s article from June 26.


June 30, 1976: New Gallup polls

If the polls tell us one thing, it is that Edmund Muskie is in deep trouble. In the late June poll, he is down 16 points to President Rockefeller, who stands at a 56% approval rating and at 55% among likely voters nationwide. Obviously, the drama around the vice presidential selection has had an effect on voters while the president benfits from the continuing economic recovery. Muskie's best hope is to halt and turn around this negative trend is the Democratic National Convention later in July.

President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 56% ▲
Disapprove: 37% ▼


1976 general election match-up
Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 55% ▲
Edmund Muskie (D): 39% ▼


1976 generic congressional ballot
Republicans: 46% ▲
Democrats: 43% ▼

1976 general election by state


The current state-by-state polling map:

(✓) Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 423 EV.
Edmund Muskie (D): 102 EV.
Tied: 13 EV.

Light blue/red = lead less than 5%
Standard blue/red = lead between 5% and 10%
Dark blue/red = Lead over 10%
Gray = Tied


Changes from the previous map:

- Alabama: Lean Republican -> Likely Republican
- Arkansas: Likely Republican -> Lean Republican
- Connecticut: Lean Democratic -> Lean Republican
- Georgia: Likely Democratic -> Lean Democratic
- Iowa: Tied -> Lean Republican
- North Carolina: Lean Republican -> Tied
- South Dakota: Safe Republican -> Likely Republican
- Vermont: Safe Republican -> Likely Republican
- Washington (state): Lean Democratic -> Lean Republican
- West Virginia: Likely Democratic -> Lean Democratic


July 4, 1976: As America celebrates bicentennial, President Rockefeller reminds countrymen of American success story and urges to unite for progress









Above: New York City on July 4, 1976; Below: President Nelson Rockefeller and Vice President Gerald Ford during public appearances at the bicentennial celebrations


July 4, 1976 marked the bicentennial of the American declaration of Independence. From coast to coast, millions of Americans came together and celebrated the bicentennial. Some called it the greatest campaign gift for President Nelson Rockefeller, who was given a huge platform that day and during other celebrations throughout the first week of July. In addition, several foreign leaders were welcomed to the White House or Camp David, where the president hosted state dinners, including one with the Queen.

On July 4 itself, President Rockefeller gave a speech in Manhattan, that was attended by over 500,000 people. Many millions more watched on television. In his remarks, Rocky called upon his fellow countrymen to look into the future with optimism and be proud of everything that has been achieved. He also expressed his firm believe that America?s third century was one of prosperity at home and peace abroad. ?America is smiling again?, the President Rockefeller told the American people and the world; a phrase he used various times to describe that ?we are now living in a better time than any of our forefathers.? ?And we ought to continue to strive for a better future with freedom and justice for all?, he added. Together with Vice President Ford, the chief executive finished his speech with a call for unity among all Americans.

For his speech, President Rockefeller got positive reviews in public and even his sharpest critics knew that any political attack on this occasion would backfire and do great harm to Edmund Muskie. The New York Times wrote that ?Nelson Rockefeller gave a campaign speech without giving a campaign speech?. Referring to ?America?s standing [under his watch]? without using his own name was a pretty smart move. ?Mr. Rockefeller brilliantly described a prospering country, getting better by the day and called upon Americans? imagination how America could be made even better in the years to come.?

[OSR stands with Israel]

The only state in the former Confederacy I can see Muskie winning is GA

[President Johnson]

July 10, 1976

BREAKING: Edmund Muskie announces George McGovern as his running mate



George McGovern (front) and Edmund Muskie at a rally

Two days before the opening of the Democratic National Convention, presumptive Democratic nominee Edmund Muskie announced his vice presidential selection at a rally in Chicago: He selected his former rival George McGovern as running mate. This selection was a huge surprise to the public. McGovern was on Muskie’s short list for the second spot, but nobody seriously anticipated him to be picked. The day before when Muskie announced to introduce his choice, press observers were confident it was Udall or potentially Askew.

When introduced, McGovern thanked for Muskie’s confidence in him and fired up the crowd by attacking the Rockefeller Administration: “President Rockefeller pretends to be a moderate, but all his so-called reforms are half backed at best. Instead, he and his GOP friends have slashed the budget. On foreign policy, we continue to operate in Cambodia with air bombing and we have a secretary of state who gives a damn for the rule of law. America needs a change this fall”. McGovern’s role in the campaign was clear: He asumes the role of an attack dog while Muskie is the well-minded and thoughtful leader. The McGovern selection gives inspiration to liberals and progressive and helps to unite the party after the primaries. Nevertheless, it may alienate more moderate voters and is essentially a surrender in the South. Four years before, RFK was backed in a decent number of southern states thanks to his running mate Jimmy Carter and the modest popularity of outgoing President Lyndon Johnson. Neither is the case now. Muskie’s strategy is a northern and Midwestern one. He hopes to win the presidency in a combination with the Pacific coast. Only time can ultimately tell how good or bad this strategy is going to be. What might be interesting to see is how McGovern’s attack dog approach will fare in contrast to the rational, polite and disciplined Gerald Ford.

So, the 1976 presidential election is going to be ROCKEFELLER/FORD versus MUSKIE/McGOVERN


Insiders: Muskie backed down from Udall after leak, McGovern wanted number two spot while Humphrey tried to prevent his nomination



Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey was engaged in an effort to prevent McGovern's nomination as VP, citing concerns with his electablity

On July 11, a day after the vice presidential nomination was announced, reports – citing insider sources – revealed that Muskie originally wanted Mo Udall to be his vice president. But Muskie was extremely upset about the leak to the Washington Post, which promptly reported the decision has been made. Accordingly, the information came from a former Udall campaign staffer, who joined the Muskie team after Udall’s exit in March. After his campaign debunked the Post story, Muskie thought it puts him into a bad light to stick with Udall later on after taking back the Post report. Ultimately, his choice came down the Askew or McGovern, but Askew seemed more interested in a cabinet position such as Treasury Secretary. On the other hand, McGovern was actively angling for the vice presidential spot, pledging to be loyal to Muskie in the campaign. To help party unity, Muskie decided to give his former rival and runner-up the nomination. “And he [Mc Govern] drives Rocky’s nuts”, Muskie is quoted during a meeting with his senior staff.

However, others including high-ranking lawmakers privately warned Muskie to go with McGovern. “He’s too much out of touch with moderate voters”, Lloyd Bentsen is quoted at a meeting. It is also reported that Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey tried to convince Senator Albert Brewer (D-AL) to reverse his decision and make himself available to the vice presidential nomination. After Humphrey's demand got rejected, he reportedly urged Senators Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) and Lawton Chiles (D-FL) to reconsider, but both declined again. Finally, Humphrey turned to Delaware governor Sherman W. Tribbitt who said no as well. In the end, a lot of high ranking Democrats were unhappy with either the choice itself or the back and forth with the nomination. Governor Bobby Kennedy reportedly described the selection as a “debacle” and the election a “debacle in the making.”



July 12 – 14, 1976

1976 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION




Opening

Denver, Colorado: Democrats gather together for their nominating convention. Almost the same day they did four years earlier. And just like in 1972, there was only one contender left for the presidential nomination: Maine Senator Edmund Muskie’s nomination was assured after all dropped out candidates released their delegates. Among them was South Dakota Senator George McGovern, who has been introduced as the vice presidential candidate few days before. The first day went through with organizing issues and saw speeches of a few senators, governors and members of congress including Mo Udall.


July 12: The party platform and notable speakers

The second day was mainly devoted to the Democratic platform. And there were some surprises, such as McGovern’s demand to reduce military spending. The main points of the platform:

- Increase the minimum wage to 2.90$ an hour
- Repeal main provisions of the Taft-Hartley Act
- Reorganize the War on Poverty and give more authorities back to the federal government that the Rockefeller Administration shifted to states
- Expand healthcare for students under the 1969 Child Care Act of the Johnson Administration
- Expand protected federal areas for environmental protection
- Repeal parts of the federal Rockefeller Anti-drug laws
- Create a federal drug-prevention program similar to New York state programs enacted under Governor Bobby Kennedy
- Supersede the Rockefeller Amnesty program for Vietnam draft dodgers with a full amnesty
- Expand public Housing programs including the 1973 program under the Rockefeller Administration
- Reduce military spending by 10% and increase foreign aid by 5%
- Continue détente with the Soviet Union and Red China (a motion to diplomatic recognition was not agreed to)
- Begin a new peace process in the Middle East

The main provisions went through without much dispute, but some lawmakers protested the demand to reduce military spending. Senator and former candidate Scoop Jackson called it “reckless”.

The day was ended with the speech of New York Governor Bobby Kennedy, who has been the party’s nominee in 1972. “I would much rather run for reelection now”, he told a cheering crowd, “but I am proud that with Edmund Muskie we have a bold leader who will fight for us and win in November.” The former vice president, senator and attorney general was still loved by huge group of supporters. Many of them held signs with “Bobby for president”. However, RFK never intended to seek the presidency in 1976. Instead, he was focused on his job as governor in which he made a pretty strong performance since assuming office in 1975. The governor concluded his speech by encouraging Democrats to fight to the end even if polls show President Rockefeller with a clear advantage.


Next: The second half of the Democratic National Convention, subsequent events and polls

[President Johnson]

1976 Democratic National Convention, Part II

July 12 ? McGovern accepts vice presidential nomination



George McGovern accepts the nomination for vice president

On July 12, the delegates elected George McGovern to be the vice presidential nominee. He received only 81% of the vote, as several protest votes were either for other high ranking Democrats or blank ballots. The Muskie campaign originally hoped to get this through by acclamation, but this effort was not successful. Nevertheless, McGovern tried to compensate the relatively weak result with fiery speech.

George McGovern: My fellow Democrats, ladies and Gentlemen. And my fellow Americans: With deep sense of humility, I accept your nomination as the nominee for vice president. [Massive applause]. Today, we begin a mission to renew America. Renew America, so that everybody has a chance to succeed. With a higher minimum wage! With expanded medical care! With a true housing program! With reform of the out-of-control war on drugs! With better schools and a better infrastructure! But these goals not just happen. We have to fight for them, all the way to November 2. And these changes certainly won?t come with an administration in power that embraces the Republican philosophy of more cutting and more and more military spending despite the fact that we moved from war to peace. And, I might just add, the conclusion of the Vietnam chapter happened under the previous administration, of which Bobby Kennedy was a member of. President Rockefeller, Secretary Nixon: You do not deserve any credit for this! Instead, you deserve some other credit: For a rising CIA involvement in dozens of countries helping forces not sharing our values. And you, Mr. Nixon, deserve special credit for misusing your office to smear a presidential candidate of the opposition party. Mr. Rockefeller ? Mr. President, when do you take responsibility and fire Mr. Nixon? [Laughter and applause goes through the hall]
? And Mr. President, when do you take responsibility for the corruption taken place under your watch? Or have you forgotten about Mr. Agnew? We demand answers. And we demand them now. We the people, we hold you and your administration accountable for the failures on policy and ethics. And we also hold you accountable for the staggering wages in this country. 'America is smiling again', you, Mr. President, and Mr. Ford like to tell us with your slogan. Ask this question to a blue-collar worker struggling to make ends meet. Do you still believe America smiles again? I know for who America smiles again: Members of your wealthy family. But this does not reflect America as a whole. Always remember this. And remember that the last minimum wage increase was only passed because of Democratic pressure. Therefore, we need to keep the congress. And we need to elect Edmund Muskie as our next president. Join me in this effort. Join me now! I promise you, as your next vice president, I will never stop fighting for you and this country.
Let us use this opportunity for a new beginning. Let us elect a new leader coming November. It is about time. Four years of a failed Republican experiment in the Oval Office are enough.
Thank you, and god bless you and the United States of America.

As McGovern finished his speech, the entire hall began to applaud for him. But throughout the speech, not everyone seemed so enthusiastic. One delegate told a CBS reporter: ?We have to make clear what we stand for. Just smearing Rockefeller and Nixon is not enough. But I have confidence in Senator Muskie.?

What became a burden to McGovern is the proceeding speaker: At Governor Bobby Kennedy?s insistence, his lieutenant governor and nominee for senate Mario Cuomo spoke to the delegates. Cuomo?s speech was a passionate address what Democrats were standing for and how prosperity should be spread to everyone. The delegates were fascinated by Cuomo?s remarks and his ability to communicate. The 44 year old lieutenant governor, who comes from an Italian immigrant family, cited his own life story what could be possible in America. If elected to senate, observers were certain, he would become a new leader of the party. Unfortunate for McGovern, many felt Cuomo?s speech overshadowed the vice presidential nominee. A delegate even joked to a reporter: ?If they weren?t from the same state, our ticket should just be Kennedy/Cuomo?, referring to the high approvals of RFK among the party base.


July 14 ? Edmund Muskie?s grand appearance



Edmund Muskie delivers his acceptance speech to Democrats

Via acclamation, Senator Edmund Muskie received the Democratic nomination for president in the early hours of July 14, 1976. Democrats placed all their hope in the 64 year old senator from the state of Maine to unseat a popular president, whose formal nomination was scheduled for the next month. After family members addressed the convention, at 4 p.m., the brand new nominee stepped up on stage to deliver his acceptance speech. He received a long standing ovation.

Edmund Muskie: Thank you all, so much. Thank you. I am overwhelmed by all you support. That means a lot to me. Now, my fellow Americans: I accept your nomination for the presidency of the United States of America. [Massive applause]
Throughout the campaign for the nomination, in which I competed against very able men of our party, including my dear friend George McGovern, who will make an excellent vice president, I was often confronted with the question: ?Why are doing this?? And as I answered what I would like to do, the entire platform, people often agreed with me. And there was a little boy, who could not understand what d?tente, denuclearization and an expansion of childcare exactly means. So, for a moment, I held my breath and thought about a brief and appropriate answer. Well, you can see it now on our signs. I?m running for nothing less than our future. For us. For America and for world peace. [?]
George and I are running for the sake of our kids. We want that in America, everyone has a decent shot. Our party fought for this for a very long time. FDR lifted us up to new levels, Harry Truman successfully contained tyranny, JFK kept that peace and begun to fight for racial equality. LBJ fulfilled this promise and leveled the plainfield for millions with the Great Society. George and I want to continue this progress and met new challenges we face at home and abroad. We can do it. And we will. All we need is your help and your support. If you working 40 and more hours a week and can?t afford a living, please help us before we help you. If your child needs healthcare but is not eligible for childcare, help us with your vote before we help you and expand healthcare. If you?re a struggling farmer, help us before we can help you. [?]
Today, in this spirit, as America?s third century begun, let us come together and fight for this vision. It is worth fighting for. Our kids are worth fighting for. Over the past four years, the president fell short in what he sought to accomplish. And make no mistake about it, the positive impulses from the past four years came out of congress, where we have a Democratic majority. Therefore, let us all together move forward as one team and elect a Democratic congress and a Democratic president. I will do my best, to make this change happen. And I sincerely hope, I earn the support of my fellow countrymen.
Thank you all, may god bless you and god bless the United States of America.

At the end of the convention, Democrats looked with more optimism into the general election. Whether the tide was now turning- only time and the next round of polling can tell.



The Democratic leadership demonstrated unity at the end of the convention



The official logo of the Muskie/McGovern campaign

[Joe Biden 2024]

Go Muskie!

[President Johnson]

July 16, 1976: President Rockefeller and Secretary Nixon announce break-through in SALT II talks



President Nelson Rockefeller during his announcement on July 16, 1976

On July 15, the day after the Democratic National Convention came to an end, the White House invited to a “very important press conference on foreign policy”, scheduled for the following day. Over the past days and weeks, reports already indicated that the SALT II talks with the USSR were soon to be concluded successfully; just as Richard Nixon told the senate a few months ago. However, due to the Democratic National Convention, national attention was on the campaign.

This July 16 at the White House, President Nelson Rockefeller, joined by Secretary of State Richard Nixon, went before the national and international press:

President Rockefeller: Ladies and Gentlemen, my fellow Americans and members of the world community: It is my pleasure today to announce that a comprehensive agreement with the Soviet Socialist Republic, known as Strategic Arms Limitations Talks or SALT II, has been reached. After three – sometimes difficult – years, representatives of the United States federal government and representatives of the Soviet government were able to negotiate a far reaching arms control agreement that serves the cause of world peace. A cause, both the Politburo as well as the U.S. government under my leadership, feel deeply committed to. The final version of the agreement will be presented to the public within the coming weeks, as our representatives work out the final details. The signing ceremony will take place in Geneva, the place the talks were conducted. Together with my team, I will personally meet with Secretary General Brezhnev for this ceremony and sign the document on behalf of the United States of America. We expect this summit to take place in the early days of October. The exact date is published soon. Today, I also want to use this opportunity to thank all representatives of the American government for their tireless efforts and Secretary Richard Nixon in particular for his work. I also want to thank Secretary General Brezhnev and the Soviet delegation for their cooperation. Last but not least, I hope the senate will subsequently ratify this historic agreement and make its contribution to a more stable and peaceful world. Secretary Nixon will now present some details of the agreement and be available for your questions. Thank you.


Muskie and Republicans clash over announcement and timing


After Democratic nominee Edmund Muskie criticized the administration's timing, Vice President Gerald Ford acsused the opposition of playing politics

The immediate reactions to the news were positive among both parties. Even the conservative Republican faction, usually critical of the détente policies, remained silent or praised the administration. Senator Paul Laxalt (R-NV) said: “While we have an opposition party that can’t even nominate a vice presidential candidate in a straight way, the Rockefeller/Ford Administration acts decisively on the world stage. If anything, this proves why we need to keep them in office.” And Laxalt hit a nerve: Even Democrats, behind closed doors, complained about the back and forth with the vice presidential nomination while the administration was making positive news in foreign policy. Some, including Muskie and McGovern, were furious since the administration was shifting public attention from their convention to foreign policy. And more bad timing for the Muskie campaign: The agreements are about to be signed four weeks before the election. While Muskie and McGovern were campaigning, Rockefeller was in Geneva to sign a far-reaching arms control treaty, producing lots of positive images and headlines.

During a campaign event, Senator Muskie couldn’t hold back his frustration when he accused the administration of “unfair play” with regard to the timing. Journalists, even liberal ones, felt his answer was inappropriate since he was asked to share his thoughts on the agreement. Vice President Gerald Ford used the opportunity to counter the Democratic nominee: “Instead of either praising the agreement or come forth with rational criticism, all he does is complaining about the timing and accusing the administration of playing politics with world peace. This is not the kind of arguments we would like to be engaged in. Instead, the other side is playing politics. On the president’s behalf, I reject Senator Muskie’s remarks and hope we are going to have an honest conversation about this administration's bold record on the international stage.”


July 21, 1976: McGovern slams Humphrey for budget agreement



George McGovern faults Hubert Humphrey for a budget deal he made with the administration

The rift between Senator McGovern and Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey continues: At a rally in Michigan, the vice presidential nominee complained that Humphrey gave leverage away twice when he decided not to allow any senate investigation into Richard Nixon’s remarks and a potential violation on the Hatch Act. “Instead, he made a flawed budget deal to avoid a budget fight over the autumn. I seriously disagree with this”, McGovern told a reporter.

Humphrey’s office declined to comment on the issue, trying to avoid further public attention on the disagreement between the two senators. Nevertheless, the Republicans lashed out against McGovern. Former California Governor Ronald Reagan, campaigning for up- and downballot Republicans, slammed the Democratic vice presidential nominee with a rhetorical question: “Senator McGovern can’t even work with his own senate leader. How does he want to work with anyone?”


July 31, 1976: New Gallup polls

President Rockefeller obviously benefits from the announced treaty with the USSR and a receovering economy, while Edmund Muskie's convention bump is either very slight or just not there after the vice presidential nomination drama. While he was trailing the president by 16 points in the June poll, he is still 12 points down. And this ahead of the Republican National Convention.

President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 57% ▲
Disapprove: 37% ▬


1976 general election match-up
Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 54% ▼
Edmund Muskie (D): 42% ▲


1976 generic congressional ballot
Republicans: 44% ▼
Democrats: 44% ▲


August 10, 1976: Campaigns agree to one presidential and one vice presidential debate

Days before the Republican National Convention is about to open its doors, the two major campaigns agreed to participate in one debate for the presidential nominees and one for the vice presidential nominees. Originally, the Muskie campaign requested at least two debates for the presidential candidates, but the Rockefeller team only agreed to one.

- The vice presidential debate between Vice President Gerald Ford and Senator George McGovern is scheduled to take place on October 15, 1976 at the University of Washington, Seattle.

- The presidential debate between President Nelson Rockefeller and Senator Edmund Muskie is scheduled to take place on October 22, 1976 at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville.

[OSR stands with Israel]

Looks like the GOP will sweep the south for the first time in history

[America Needs R'hllor]

The Muskie campaign is a mess. Go Rocky and downballot Democrats!

[P. Clodius Pulcher did nothing wrong]

Go Muskie/Mcgovern! PS Thanks for including arrows showing whether percentages have increased or decreased, it helps reading a lot

[Sir Mohamed]

Yup, the Muskie campaign is a mess. I'd probably end up voting for Rockefeller in the end and for Dems down-ballot.

I predict this outcome, though MA may go either way:

✓ President Nelson Rockefeller (R-NY)/Vice President Gerald Ford (R-MI): 475 EVs.; 57.5%
Senator Ed Muskie (D-DE)Senator George McGovern (D-SD): 63 EVs.; 41.5%

[President Johnson]

August 16 – 19, 1976

1976 REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION



Kansas City, Missouri: On August 16, 1976, the Republican National Convention opened its doors for more than 2,000 delegates, thousands of visitors and journalists from across the globe. One month after the Democrats nominated their candidates for president and vice president, the Republicans were about to the same. There was just one name for both positions: The incumbent president and the incumbent vice president. The first day of the convention was devoted to organization issues and the convention rules. Senator Bob Dole of Kansas formally presided over the convention.

The keynote address was also given this day. Missouri Governor Kit Bond was given the honor to give this speech in his homestate, where the convention took place. For the 37 year old first term governor, who was known as a moderate, it was the first time in national spotlight.


August 17: The platform, notable speakers including Ronald Reagan



Although no longer in public office, Ronald Reagan had a big moment on the second day of the convention with a speech about world peace

On August 17, the party platform as enacted. Remembering the Democratic fights over defense spending, the Rockefeller campaign started an early process for a platform blueprint. Over this process, members of the moderate or liberal faction was well leading GOP conservatives were involved to find common ground and demonstrate unity on the convention floor.

The main points of the platform:

- Increased spending on federal aid to education; permanent evaluation of social programs to improve accountability, eliminate wasteful spending to save taxpayer dollars
- Full funding of the EPA and new rules to combat water pollution
- Link the minimum wage to inflation but allow congress to change rules one way or another
- An additional cut of 10% of corporate taxes to stimulate growth
- Support legislation against discrimination of women at the workplace; enforce civil rights laws in the South
- Continue the 1975 income tax cuts, no tax increases on individuals
- Continue the war on drugs: Eliminate unemployment benefits for drug abusers
- Invest additional 20 billion dollars for highways and bridges
- Keep defense spending largely at the current level
- Support of the SALT II treaty
- Support President Rockefeller’s amnesty program for Vietnam draft dodgers, no unconditional pardons

The only issue no common ground between the factions could be found was abortion. Moderates, including President Rockefeller and Vice President Ford were pro-choice, the conservatives were pro-life. Ultimately, the party platform states that each elected Republican official should make his or her own decision.

The day was concluded with former Governor Ronald Reagan’s speech. Despite being out of office since early 1975, the Gipper remained present on the national stage through various appearances on television and visits at the White House from time to time. The 1972 Republican runner-up held a 15 minute speech that energized the convention hall. He spoke about the importance of keeping the peace through strength. Although not mentioned by name, Reagan emphasized that unlike Senator Muskie only President Rockefeller could be trusted with the atomic arsenal. He also attacked the Democrats and accused them of moving to the “far left”. Especially George McGovern was a target for him, saying the Democratic vice presidential nominee wanted to raise taxes and regulate every aspect for business and people’s private lives. In the end, he urged not just to support the president, but also down-ballot Republicans in congressional races.


August 18 – congressional leaders speak, Gerald Ford accepts vice presidential nomination



Vice President Gerald Ford and his wife Betty after accepting the vice presidential nomination

Following addresses by the congressional leadership, Vice President Gerald Ford was re-nominated for his position by acclamation. When he want on the podium following Second Lady Betty Ford, the hall gave the vice president a standing-ovation. “Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!” the delegates chanted.
 
Vice President Ford: Thank you my friends. It is great to be here in Kansas City tonight. Thank you. With pride and humility, I hereby accept your nomination for the vice presidency again. [Cheering crowd]
First, let me say how proud I am to stand here at the Republican Convention. At this convention, 200 years after the experiment of freedom and self-determination by the people begun, we have demonstrated unity and the willingness to fight for our principals. Principals rooted in three words: Peace, freedom and prosperity. This is what we promised four years ago, and despite all difficulties we have delivered on these promises. After a painful downturn, America once again is on the right track. Inflation and unemployment are dropping. Faster than anticipated. Wages are starting to rise and corporations invest in this wonderful country and its hard working men and women. The government invests in housing and the infrastructure, that we can build the economy of the future. And while things are moving in the right direction here at home, we have kept the peace abroad. We fought back were tyranny was on the march and just last month presented a far-reaching arms limitations treaty with the USSR that will help to keep the peace. And while still a lot remains to be done in the next four years, we have delivered on the promises we made. Today, I can proudly say that America is smiling again. […]
Let me finish by expressing my deepest thanks to the man I closely worked with over the past four years and whom I deeply admire for his leadership and honor: Let me thank you, Mr. President, for all you have done. On Betty’s behalf, let me also thank the First Lady, Happy Rockefeller, for her warmth and friendship. Betty and I will always stand with you and help to guide this wonderful nation of ours. Now let us move on to a great victory on November second! Thank you all again! God bless America!


August 19 – Nelson Rockefeller accepts re-nomination for president



President Nelson Rockefeller among the delegates before being called to give his acceptance speech

Like Gerald Ford, Nelson Rockefeller was re-nominated by acclamation. It was the last day of the convention. Notable speakers were First Lady Happy Rockefeller and David Rockefeller, the president’s younger brother. A surprise guest was famous actor Cary Grant, who supports the Rockefeller campaign. In the afternoon, he introduced the president when he entered the stage. The Hall was filled with “Rocky! Rocky! We want Rocky!” chants; thousands of Rockefeller/Ford signs were visible.

President Rockefeller: Wow, I am overwhelmed by your support. Thank you all very much. Thank you. Thank you once again. Fellow Republicans, my fellow countrymen: With joy, gratitude and humility, I once again accept your nomination for the presidency of the United States.

Cheering crowd: Four more years! Four more years! Four more years! Four more years!

President Rockefeller: Thank you all so much. I can hardly put into words what your support means to me, Happy, Jerry and Betty. So, thank you again for your love, courage and friendship.
Just a little more than a month ago, we – as Americans – not as Republicans, Democrats or Independents, came together to celebrate the 200th birthday of our nation. And we welcomed the third century of this unique American success story. And ever since I took over the responsibility to lead this wonderful nation of ours, I have thought about what this third century of the American experiment will look like? Like millions and millions of Americans out there, I want this century to be one of peace. Peace with the nations of the world, but also peace among ourselves. “Let us have peace”, General Ulysses Grant told his fellow countrymen when he became the second Republican president of this nation. And the great Abraham Lincoln, the first Republican president, thought us: “A house divided against itself cannot stand”. Over a hundred years later, let us remember those wise words and work for an America everyone willing to contribute has a chance. One chance, and some may need a second or even third chance. No matter where your ancestors came from, no matter whether you are white, black or from the Americas. No matter whether you are a man or a woman. Because this is, what America stands for. These our ideals, this is our shining example. And in this third century, we have the chance to come closer to these ideals than in any time before.
Over the last three and a half years, we have kept the peace abroad, stood up to tyranny in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and South America. We found new common understanding with our advisories and are about to sign the most far reaching disarmament treaty in the history of world. A treaty that is intended not just to keep the peace, but to end a deadly arms race. Meanwhile, we will continue to be the world’s most powerful nation and own a defense that is second to none. At home, we have not just enforced civil rights laws, we have overcome an economic downturn. The economy is growing again, because millions of hard working Americans get up every morning and do what they can do best: Be productive. […]
All this is at stake in this election. And while we do not question the good intentions of our opponents, we see that they have little to offer. Somehow, they want to keep the peace by continuing détente policies, but cut defense spending at a dangerous rate, what would encourage tyrants all over the world to march to the arms. America must and under my leadership will stand tall at the world stage. We will not retreat. We will not back down. Neither do we seek to conquer by the use of force. […]
Over the last three and half years, we have demonstrated how America can be moved into the right direction. Let us continue to so! This is why Jerry and I ask the American people for a renewed mandate in this election. There is no substitude for victory!
Thank you very much, god bless you and may god bless the United States of America.



President Nelson Rockefeller and Vice President Gerald Ford cheer with Convention Chair Bob Dole at the conclusion of the Republican National Convention



The Rockefeller/Ford campaign logo


August 31, 1976: New Gallup polls

Just before the 1976 election turns into its final stage on Labor Day, President Rockefeller benefits from a convention bump. With his approval rating at 59%, he leads Edmund Muskie by 18 points in the nationwide survey. With just a little more than two months, the senator from Maine has a lot to climb. President Rockefeller's popularity and the apparent Republican unity (just to remember Ronald Reagan's speech) also benefits the generic ballot question for congress. As things now stand, Republicans could at least reverse their losses in the 1974 midterm elections and make Hubert Humphrey nervous in the senate.

President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 59% ▲
Disapprove: 35% ▼


1976 general election match-up
Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 56% ▲
Edmund Muskie (D): 38% ▼


1976 generic congressional ballot
Republicans: 49% ▲
Democrats: 43% ▼


1976 general election by state

The current state-by-state polling map:

(✓) Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 463 EV.
Edmund Muskie (D): 75 EV.
Tied: 0 EV.

Light blue/red = lead less than 5%
Standard blue/red = lead between 5% and 10%
Dark blue/red = Lead over 10%
Gray = Tied


Changes from the previous map:

- Arkansas: Lean Republican -> Likely Republican
- Indiana: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican
- Iowa: Lean Republican -> Likely Republican
- New Mexico: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican
- North Carolina: Toss up -> Lean Republican
- Pennsylvania: Lean Democratic -> Lean Republican
- Virginia: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican

[President Johnson]

September 1976: The hot phase of the campaign season begins

Campaigns spar over issues, Team Muskie grows more nervous behind the scenes



Edmund Muskie during a rally in California on September 5, 1976

As August turned into September and summer was slowly passing over into the fall, the presidential campaign gained steam. While Edmund Muskie and George McGovern focused on their criticism of the administration and demands to expand the welfare state, Nelson Rockefeller and Gerald Ford mainly focused on their record since taking office in January 1973. While the president and the vice president refrained from direct shots at the opposing ticket, several Rockefeller surrogates attacked Muskie and McGovern. Ronald Reagan stumped the campaign trail and slammed the Democrats for being “weak on defense”, “weak on crime” and “an endless desire to tax and regulate”. Especially the Democratic calls to cut defense spending were a frequent target of the Rockefeller campaign and other GOP officeseekers. Senator Bob Dole (R-KS) argued a Muskie Administration would sell out America in contrast to the bold current leadership. Muskie countered these attacks by accusing the administration of wasting money on defense due to mismanagement in the Pentagon. “The president either doesn’t get it or he doesn’t care about the incompetence of Secretary Romney”, he told a crowd in Georgia. George McGovern complained about the lack of senate oversight for the Pentagon and intelligence agencies. Claims that Vice President Gerald Ford called ridiculous, pointing to the Democratic majorities in congress.

A permanent concern for the Democratic ticket were the weak polling numbers and the frequent questions by journalists on them. Senator Muskie and his supporters publically made a confident impression, often referring to President Harry S. Truman’s upset reelection in 1948 or President Lyndon Johnson’s overperformance in 1968 (though neither of these comparisons were actually well taken with regard to the 1976 campaign). But behind closed doors, the mood in Muskie headquarters was very nervous and even frustrated or afraid. Close aides to the nominee and members of congress faulted Muskie, among other things, for the McGovern selection, fearing this would turn moderate voters over to the Rockefeller camp. Although the South Dakota senator brought in a lot of liberal activists to the campaign and a good ground game, polls showed the pick was not helpful in gaining ground against a popular incumbent. Behind the scenes, aides admitted that Muskie had an uphill battle to victory in November. Their single greatest hopes were on the televised debates in October to finally turn the tide. Otherwise, some voices expressed concern Nelson Rockefeller would be reelected in a landslide and even win as many as 500 electoral votes.


Over 2 in 5 African Americans support Rockefeller, poll says



President Nelson Rockefeller shakes hands in Houston, Texas on September 22, 1976

An early September Gallup poll gives Democrats reasons to worry: The poll, conducted only among African Americans, showed that 41% of blacks plan to vote President Nelson Rockefeller in the November 2 general election. 55% were in favor of the Muskie/McGovern ticket. The poll also found that 66% approved Rocky’s performance in office; 87% approved the administration’s handling of civil rights. Especially Attorney General Edward Brooke, the first black attorney general, gets high grades among all demographics.

If these numbers somewhat hold true on Election Day, this would have dramatic consequences. Especially across the South and other states with a significant African American population. Experts expect a high black turnout in the South due to the Rockefeller Administration’s tough enforcement of civil rights laws. Blacks, when allowed to vote, have a long history of voting for the Republican ticket since the civil war, but actions on civil rights by Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson caused many to switch to Democrats (however, African Americans continued to support pro-civil rights Republican governors in the 1960s such as Nelson Rockefeller himself or now-Defense Secretary George Romney). In his successful 1964 and 1968 reelections, Lyndon Johnson took over 90% of the black vote. The tide turned in 1972, when Bobby Kennedy won 76% compared to Nelson Rockefeller’s 23%. In this election, both candidates had a staunchly pro-civil rights record and support from African Americans in previous elections.

Nevertheless, one positive aspect for Democrats was in the poll: African Americans backed their congressional candidates by a 67-19% margin over Republicans, what may help explain the gap between the generic ballot and presidential numbers.


The Rockefeller Salute



President Nelson Rockefeller giving his response to disrupting hippes in New York on September 16, 1976

Unexpected response by the President of the United States: When at a campaign rally in New York on September 16, a group of disrupting Hippies repeatedly yelled at Nelson Rockefeller while talking to voters and showed him the middle finger, the president couldn’t hold back his anger. He showed them middle finger in return!

The Muskie campaign and the Democrats, as well as some political pundits, criticized the president’s behavior in their responses. However, President Rockefeller refused to apologize. “I was just responding in kind”, he said when asked by a reporter the following day in Pennsylvania. Republican allies of the White House defended the president; Ronald Reagan pointed to his own handling of hippies during his time as governor, for example when he said “these fellows scream make love, not war, but they look like as if they can neither.” Whether this incident would have an effect on polling numbers remains doubtful.


September 30, 1976: New Gallup polls

Little move in the numbers: President Rockefeller's approval dropped by a single point, while Edmund Muskie gained in the nationwide head-to-head poll. However, he  is still way behind there, as well as the state-by-state breakdown. Republicans again hold an advantage in the generic ballot for congress.

President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 58% ▼
Disapprove: 38% ▲


1976 general election match-up
Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 55% ▼
Edmund Muskie (D): 41% ▲


1976 generic congressional ballot
Republicans: 47% ▼
Democrats: 43% ▬


1976 general election by state

The current state-by-state polling map:

(✓) Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 443 EV.
Edmund Muskie (D): 68 EV.
Tied: 27 EV.

Light blue/red = lead less than 5%
Standard blue/red = lead between 5% and 10%
Dark blue/red = Lead over 10%
Gray = Tied


Changes from the previous map:

- Connecticut: Lean Republican -> Likely Republican
- Hawaii: Lean Democratic -> Likely Democratic
- Mississippi: Lean Democratic -> Lean Republican
- Missouri: Likely Republican -> Lean Republican
- New Jersey: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican
- New York: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican
- Oregon: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican
- Pennsylvania: Lean Republican -> Tied
- Vermont: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican
- Washington: Lean Republican -> Likely Republican
- West Virginia: Lean Democratic -> Likely Democratic

[President Johnson]

October 6 – 7, 1976: SALT II Treaty signed in Geneva


More than three years in the negotiating process, the Strategic Arms Limitations Talks II, known as SALT II, were ready for signature in Geneva, the negotiating site. Political observers consider SALT II the greatest achievement of the Rockefeller Administration on the world stage since taking office. President Nelson Rockefeller, as announced, left the campaign trail and led the US delegation to the formal ceremony. He was joined by Secretary of State Richard Nixon, who played a key role in the process, Secretary of Defense George Romney and National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger.

SALT II was a continuation of SALT I, that then-President Lyndon Johnson and Secretary General Leonid Brezhnev signed in 1972. It is also first nuclear arms treaty which assumed real reductions in strategic forces to 2,500 of all categories of delivery vehicles on both sides. The agreement also bans new missile programs (a new missile defined as one with any key parameter 5% better than in currently deployed missiles). Likewise, SALT II limits the number of ballistic missiles and long range missiles to 1,400 for each side. However, the United States preserved their most essential programs like the Trident missile, along with the cruise missiles the Rockefeller Administration wished to use as his main defensive weapon as they were too slow to have first strike capability. In return, the USSR could exclusively retain 308 of its so-called "heavy ICBM" launchers of the SS-18 type.

On October 6, both heads of state and their senior officials had dinner together, with the press also being invited. The mood at the table seemed positive and both leaders exchanged some personal gifts. It was the third time that Brezhnev and Rockefeller had met each other since 1973. On October 7, the grand signing ceremony took place in front of the international press. Afterwards, President Rockefeller and Secretary General Brezhnev gave a brief joint statement praising the progress that has been made for world peace. In the end, Secretary General Brezhnev invited President Rockefeller for an official state visit to Moscow in the coming year if he wins reelection. On his way back to America, the president made stops in Bonn, Paris and London for routine political consultations.

A poll conducted in the days after the summit showed that 76% of Americans supported the treaty and 69% approved the Rockefeller Administration’s handling of foreign policy.

[FEMA Camp Administrator]

Love your inclusion of Brezhnev’s signature. The Russian “L” sure is uninspiring.

[President Johnson]

October 15, 1976

★★★ THE VICE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE ★★★

★★★ Gerald Ford vs. George McGovern ★★★




On October 15, 1976, exactly four years after the last vice presidential debate, Gerald Ford and George McGovern met for the 1976 vice presidential debate. It took place at the University of Washington in Seattle and was moderated by ABC’s Barbara Walters.


Debate highlights:

Barbara Walters: Good evening everyone! My name is Barbara Walters of ABC News and it is my pleasure to moderate the vice presidential debate of the 1976 presidential election. This debate will last for 90 minutes and consist all major topics of the campaign. […] Now let us welcome to two major party nominees for the office of vice president. Please welcome Vice President Gerald R. Ford, the Republican nominee running for reelection with President Nelson Rockefeller. [Applause] And please welcome Senator George McGovern, the Democratic candidate, running on the opposing ticket with Senator Edmund Muskie. [Applause] Welcome again to both of you, gentlemen, and let us begin with the questions. There will be no opening statements, but closing statements.

As determined by a coin toss, I would like to begin with Senator McGovern. Senator, the economy has been out of recession for almost a year now, the inflation is dropping and polls show a large majority of Americans approve the Rockefeller Administration’s foreign policy. Just last week, a major treaty with the USSR has been signed. Why do you and Senator Muskie believe this administration should not be awarded with a renewed mandate?

Senator McGovern: Thank you, Barbara for this important question. […] First, I would like to point out that we may be out of a recession, but the unemployment rate has dropped at a relatively slow rate compared to other recoveries in the past. At the same time, wages are staggering in this country. Recoveries like this are just the normal business cycle; therefore I would not give credit to this administration for this weak rebound. Senator Muskie  and I have a bold plan to restore prosperity and increase wages. At the same time, we will review expenditures at the Pentagon, where billions of dollars have been wasted. And that brings me to foreign policy. It is true that we support comprehensive agreements with the USSR, but I would like to point out that this process begun under the Johnson/Kennedy Administration from 1969 to 1973.



Barbara Walters: Thank you, Senator. Vice President Ford, how do you respond? And why do you believe your administration deserves a second term?

Vice President Ford: Thank you, Barbara. The arguments Senator McGovern just brought up make me wonder, because he was the one who hammered the Rockefeller Administration when the economy was, due to many – mostly external – factors, in bad shape. Now that we are back on solid growth territory, the administration all of a sudden has nothing to do with it? A logic, I have to confess, I have difficulty to understand. The same on foreign policy: President Rockefeller just signed the most far-reaching arms limitation treaty with the Soviets and my opponent wants us to believe this is all somehow only a continuation of the previous administration, which he, back then, also criticized for its foreign policy conduct. As a matter of fact, America is better off than four years ago, at home and abroad, and this is why President Rockefeller and I ask for a second term.

Senator McGovern: Just briefly… the vice president just blamed the recession on external factors, which is true in part, while faulting me for the same thing when it comes to taking credit.

Vice President Ford: As you know, the recession was mainly caused by the 1973/74 oil crisis, that may have been worse if President Rockefeller had not acted the way he did. Inflation was caused by high spending, that we have been able limit while growing the economy through various policies. The senator tries to fault the administration for everything that goes wrong, while giving credit for positive things to the previous one or other factors. President Rockefeller deserves credit for his leadership, and more importantly the hard working American people deserve credit. What they do not deserve is a tax hike. My opponent plays a credit-blame game for purely political purposes. You can’t have it both ways, senator.


Barbara Walters: Thank you both. I want to move on. Vice President Ford, I have a question for you: You called the Muskie/McGovern campaign’s proposal to cut defense spending dangerous and irresponsible. On the other hand, President Rockefeller has promised to eliminate the budget deficit by 1980 without cutting social services. Where do you want to get the money from? What did you recommend to the president on this matter and wouldn’t the Muskie proposal be more honest?

Vice President Ford: That is absolutely correct, such a proposal is dangerous because it would send devastating signals to the world. Signals, that America is on the decline. We have kept the peace in Europe and Asia, including South Vietnam, by demonstrating American strength. And at the same time, we have been open to negotiations that resulted in a comprehensive treaty. To come to your question: We are going to reduce the deficit with an expanding economy, better wages to collect more taxes without raising rates and having less people on welfare. In addition, we have already saved billions of dollars by increasing government efficiency. A commission under my leadership has produced bold results here and I am proud that the president put me in charge of it.



Senator McGovern: This is the same fictional story Republicans tell us all over again. They make, and I quote, the ‘government more efficient’, what actually means slashing social programs. Their term sounds nicer, but the end result is the exact same. Yes, our approach by having reasonable savings at the Pentagon is the honest answer. We can save money without putting America’s safety at risk. Peace and safety will always be our top-priority. But we have to spend the tax dollars wisely. This administration has failed in this regard. This fiscal year’s deficit is 35 billion dollars. This is nothing to be proud of, Mr. Vice President.

Vice President Ford: Senator, please name me social services that this administration has cut? All we have done is cut out welfare cheaters and transferred some inefficient programs to the states. Other agencies have been terminated because they were redundant. Members of your caucus supported almost all of these steps. I have been involved in the process, and what my opponent claims is not factually correct.

Senator McGovern: Federal aid to education? You did not eliminate related programs? Some of these things have been done in 1973 and ’74. Now that the election is around the corner, the administration runs away from it or wants to fix a problem they themselves have created.

Barbara Walters: Gentlemen… Mr. Vice President, Senator, I want to move on…

Vice President Ford: Senator, you know that this is not accurate and misleading the viewers. I have explained what we’ve done. We stand by it.

Senator McGovern: No, Mr. Vice President, you run away from your record now.


Barbara Walters: Alright, we leave it there as I have a new question for Senator McGovern. Senator, Vice President Ford has already mentioned part of his own record as second man in the administration. If elected, what would be your personal priorities as vice president? What issues would you be most passionate about? Have you discussed this question with Senator Muskie?

Senator McGovern: Important question, Barbara. As vice president, I will be involved in any important policy field and work on anything Edmund Muskie wants me to be involved in. Of course, I will be an important advisor of his to make sure we get the things done we promise to the American people.

Barbara Walters: But, to specify this, Senator, you have not named a particular issue you would like to be involved?

Senator McGovern: Well, I would do everything I can to assure the Muskie/McGovern agenda gets implemented. That requires a good relation with congress.

Vice President Ford: If I may… Unfortunately, Senator, this is not what you have demonstrated in the past. Especially the last few weeks and months showed Senator McGovern’s rift with his own Leader, Senator Humphrey. Maybe that all of a sudden changes after November, but color me skeptical.

Senator McGovern: I had a difference with the leader about the approach how he approved the budget and how he handled the Nixon speech. There is pluralism in the Democratic Party, but in the end there is unity on the cause to help working people. Something I deeply care about and what I will work for as vice president. Within the Republican Party, there is no such thing.

Vice President Ford: It was not only the approach, Senator, and you know that. But I guess we leave it there. The respective records speak for themselves.

Barbara Walters: A quick follow up on this, Vice President Ford: On which issues would you like to work on if reelected? Or to what tasks has or will President Rockefeller assigned you to?

Vice President Ford: As it is well known, I’ve chaired the commission on government efficiency, that successfully saved taxpayer dollars, and been the president’s representative in working with my old colleagues in the congress. Additionally, I have traveled the world and supported the extraordinary foreign policy of President Rockefeller and Secretary Nixon. I would like to continue this because our policies have produced bold results.


Barbara Walters: Last question before the closing statement: Senator McGovern, you have pushed Senator Muskie to demand an unconditional pardon for Vietnam draft dodgers. Although Robert Kennedy proposed this in 1972, Senator Muskie seemed reluctant for such calls during the primary. Why do you believe this is the right way forward and not the conditional pardon program President Rockefeller has established?

Senator McGovern: Barbara, I’d put this straight: Senator Muskie has not publically addressed this issue during the primary campaign, but always been supportive of this demand even then-candidate Kennedy made the proposal to grant unconditional pardons. Now let me address the question: I have been a critic of our military involvement in Vietnam since the mid-1960s. I believe this kind of an involvement we had was wrong and therefore I believe we ought to grant a full pardon to all those young people who refused to go into the war. Under a draft system, that was extremely unfair. I successfully led the fight to end the draft under the Johnson/Kennedy Administration. Now that this war is long concluded we still have people in Canada and elsewhere who want to come out of the shadows and rejoin the American society. Let them allow to do.

Barbara Walters: Vice President Ford, your response?

Vice President Ford: Well… first, these draft dodgers, under President Rockefeller’s program, have the opportunity to come back. But let’s not forget that they are draft dodgers and refused duty. However, this administration wants to give everyone a second chance and earn their way back into our ranks. But they have to earn it in order to admit their wrongdoing. I firmly stand by the president’s decision and I believe a vast majority of the American people do likewise. Second, if Senator McGovern had his way, Vietnam as a whole would be under communist rule today. Instead, we have a stabilized situation like in Korea. Of course, it is not ideal but better than anything the senator and his extreme liberal supporters called for.


Barbara Walters: We’re near the end of this debate and I would like to come to the closing statements. Senator McGovern, you begin.

Senator McGovern: Thank you. My fellow citizens: In roughly two weeks you will be heading to the polls and elect a new government. And when you do so, I urge you to think what kind of a government you want: One that works for everyone or one that has primarily served the interest of big business and has or had cabinet members, who have shown little integrity? Senator Muskie and I offer you a government, open and honest, that works for everyone by listening to your voice. A government, that delivers higher wages, better jobs, a clean environment and that always puts our safety first. Join Senator Muskie and me in this effort to reclaim this government for the common man. We want to be the servant of the people and ensure a fair living for everyone who is happy to be born on American soil or anyone who comes to this wonderful country to be part of our success story. Thank you and god bless America.

Barbara Walters: Vice President Ford, your closing statement.

Vice President Ford: Thank you. My fellow Americans: In the past four years I’ve served as your vice president under President Rockefeller, an extraordinary leader, America has become stronger at home and more respected around the globe. We have delivered on equal justice for everyone, a growing economy and not just kept the peace, but made it safer than ever. We have been a force for good and always will be a beacon of hope, which millions of people around the world admire and want to join. The Rockefeller/Ford Administration has produced results with a pragmatic approach of governing. President Rockefeller and I intend to continue this work in the coming four years to tackle to unfinished tasks ahead of us and make America an even better place to live. Therefore, President Rockefeller and I ask for your support on November the second. God bless you, good night and may god bless America.

Barbara Walters: Thank you Vice President Ford, thank you Senator McGovern. I would also like to thank our viewers for their interest and remind you that the presidential debate between Nelson Rockefeller and Edmund Muskie will be on October 22. My colleague Howard K. Smith will be moderating this debate and I hope you will be on again. Good night.

[Sir Mohamed]

It really looks bad for Muskie. McGovern did not well in the debate, I think. Looking forward to the prez debate.

[MR DARK BRANDON]

Update?

[President Johnson]

[OSR stands with Israel]

Go Rockefeller

[President Johnson]

October 24, 1976: Nelson Rockefeller decisively wins presidential debate, survey finds

Two days after the presidential debate took place, Gallup released a survey which found that 64% of viewers felt President Nelson Rockefeller was the winner of this debate. Only 25% said the same on Senator Edmund Muskie. Asked why the voted this way, most respondents asnwered that Nelson Rockefeller made a more decisive impression with more critical knowledge and better administrative skills. These numbers were horrendous for the Muskie campaign and even a Democratic spokesman admitted the debate performance by their nominee was "semi-perfect".

Even more pressing was a new national poll, which gave President Rockefeller a 22-point advantage over his challenger. While thus survey was seen as outlier, even among Republicans, the trendline was working against the opposing ticket.

1976 general election match-up
Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 59% ▲
Edmund Muskie (D): 37% ▼


The closing days of the campaign



(✓) Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 493 EV.
Edmund Muskie (D): 45 EV.
Tied: 0 EV.

Light blue/red = lead less than 5%
Standard blue/red = lead between 5% and 10%
Dark blue/red = Lead over 10%
Gray = Tied


Changes from the previous map:

- California: Likely Republican -> Safe Republican
- Hawaii: Likely Democratic -> Lean Republican
- Minnesota: Likely Democratic -> Lean Democratic
- Missouri:Lean Republican -> Likely Republican
- Pennsylania: Tied -> Likely Republican
- Maine: Lean Democratic -> Lean Republican
- North Carolina:Lean Republican -> Likely Republican
- Rhode Island: Lean Democratic -> Lean Republican
- West Virginia: Likely Democratic -> Lean Democratic
- Wisconsin: Lean Democratic -> Likely Republican


NEXT: Live coverage of the 1976 presidential election on CBS with Walter Cronkite!

[Elcaspar]

I have just caught up on this the last three days, and i am really enjoying this timeline, i am glad this is one of the first i discovered when i joined this forum. Keep up the good work on this, i am looking forward for the next update.

[Joe Biden 2024]

While I had hopes for a Muskie victory, at this point, Rockefeller's going to win, and I predict Bobby will get elected in 1980.