The liberal Republic

[Sir Mohamed]

Nice updates! I read it this morning. Hopefully the Rockefeller Admin can get something done in the Middle East. Also would love to see RFK running and winning for gov and prez again in '80. Just a minor correction: His birthday is in November, not October

[P. Clodius Pulcher did nothing wrong]

Yay for the good neighbor policy!!

[President Johnson]

Nice updates! I read it this morning. Hopefully the Rockefeller Admin can get something done in the Middle East. Also would love to see RFK running and winning for gov and prez again in '80. Just a minor correction: His birthday is in November, not October

Yay for the good neighbor policy!!

Thanks! I corrected RFK's birthday month. Always thought it was October.

[President Johnson]

March 22, 1974: It’s official – Bobby Kennedy runs for Governor of New York, rules out 1976 presidential bid



Before a massive crowd in New York City, Robert Kennedy announced his candidacy for the New York governorship on March 22, 1974

Since New Year’s eve it was a rumor, now it’s official: Former vice president, senator, attorney general and 1972 Democratic presidential nominee Robert F. Kennedy declared his candidacy for Governor of New York in the upcoming fall election. Over 15,000 people came to New York City, where RFK announced his attention to seek office again. It was his first public appearance before a larger audience since he lost the presidential election to Nelson Rockefeller almost one and a half year ago. In his speech, the former vice president reflected on his public record and pointed to his ability to bring about positive change: “Although I had the great fortune to come from a privileged family, I always fought for the little man. For the sick, the disadvantaged, for our children, for blacks’ rights and economic and social justice. I have proven, that I can be that change agent. A change, I believe the state of New York needs this year. That is why I am running for governor”, RFK told his supporters. He further spoke about more opportunity for everybody and a different approach to drug policy, without giving details. The former vice president also promised increased funding for the infrastructure and early-childhood education. “I would be excited to work for the people of New York. Let’s go to work!”, RFK finished his speech.

The former vice president is expected to face incumbent Republican Malcolm Wilson in the November general election, who succeeded to the governorship in January 1973 following Nelson Rockefeller’s election to the presidency. The race is going to be one of the closest watched in the nation. First polls before the announcement showed a lead for Kennedy, though political observers also give Wilson outsider chances to retain his office. The primaries will not take place until September, but both Kennedy and Wilson are expected to easily win their respective party’s nomination. The Liberal Party of New York, a minor local party, soon after endorsed Kennedy for governor while Republican Jacob Javits is their nominee for reelection to the senate. Meanwhile, the NY Conservative Party is about to support Governor Wilson after they backed off to endorse Nelson Rockefeller in his last statewide race in 1970.

During a question-answer-session with reporters backstage after the announcement, Bobby Kennedy ruled out running for president again in 1976. “No, I am not going to be a presidential candidate in 1976, regardless of the outcome of this election”, RFK said, “I pledge to the people of New York that if I am elected governor, I will devote at least full four years to work on their behalf. I am running because I want to serve the Empire State and not use the governorship as a steppingstone for anything.” When asked about his preferred candidate to challenge President Rockefeller in 1976, he declined, but spoke highly about his former running mate Jimmy Carter and pledged to support the Democratic nominee.


March 23, 1974: Spiro Agnew blasts RFK following announcement, pledges engagement in key midterm races



RFK just announced his gubernatorial bid, Spiro Agnew already made him a target at a GOP fundraiser

President Nelson Rockefeller, through a spokeswoman, welcomed RFK to the race with kind words, but expressed his staunch support for Governor Malcolm Wilson, a personal friend and long-time ally who was long known as “Rocky’s right-handed man”. Other members of his administration already took aim at the candidate: Attorney General Spiro Agnew slammed RFK as “desperate office seeker”, who would be “a very bad deal for New York.” Agnew joked at a Republican fundraiser: “First, he wanted be called Mr. Vice President, in 1964, then just weeks later he wanted to be – and ultimately became – a senator. Four years later he wanted to be called Mr. President. After that failed, he again wanted to be, and became, Mr. Vice President. Another four years later, he again wanted to be Mr. President. Now, barely two years past this, he got the idea that he wanted to be referred to as Mr. Governor. How long is it going to last before he wants to be Mr. President again?” And he further remarked: “We don’t need a clone of super-liberal George McGovern running the Empire State into bankruptcy. The thought of ‘Governor Kennedy’, being in charge of the second largest state in the nation, actually terrifies me. Mr. Kennedy would be the man of a tiny liberal elite, trying to impose their weak-on-crime policies on a whole nation.” The unusual political Attorney General also announced that he would actively campaign in the fall for Republican senate and gubernatorial candidates. Just the previous month, he indicated to get involved in the South Dakota senate race in an effort to unseat his favorite foe George McGovern. Senator McGovern, who immediately endorsed Bobby Kennedy’s run for governor, hit back at the attorney general by asking this question publically: “For what reason is Mr. Agnew on a government payroll? To me, it seems more like he’s not the chief-law enforcement officer in this country, but instead a partisan attack dog, who is abusing his department as vehicle for his pessimistic views of society. Our message is simple: Basta, Mr. Agnew!”


March 31, 1974: New Gallup polls

At the end of the first quarter of 1974, Gallup conducted a series of polls again, asking more detailed questions about President Rockefeller's performance in office. Some polls on the midterms were published as well.


President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 62%
Disapprove: 33%


Questions

Q: Do you approve or disapprove President Rockefeller's foreign policy in general?
Approve: 73%
Disapprove: 20%
Undecided: 7%

Q: Do you approve or disapprove President Rockefeller's economic policy?
Approve: 51%
Disapprove: 39%
Undecided: 10%

Q: Do you approve or disapprove Vice President Ford's performance in office?
Approve: 65%
Disapprove: 21%
Undecided: 14%

Q: Do you approve or disapprove Secretary of State Nixon's performance in office?
Approve: 58%
Disapprove: 31%
Undecided: 11%

Q: Do you approve or disapprove Secretary of Defense Romney's performance in office?
Approve: 61%
Disapprove: 23%
Undecided: 16%

Q: Do you approve or disapprove Attorney General Agnew's performance in office?
Approve: 50%
Disapprove: 44%
Undecided: 6%

Q: Do you approve or disapprove the work of congress?
Approve: 43%
Disapprove: 38%
Undecided: 19%


1974 congressional elections – generic ballot

Republican: 44%
Democratic: 44%


New York gubernatorial election

Robert F. Kennedy (D): 51%
Malcolm Wilson (R, inc.): 44%

[Sir Mohamed]

YEES! Bobby for gov in '74 and prez in '80! I enjoy Agnew, too. Would be funny if the dude once more runs and ends up as GOP nominee. But I predict he'll go down with a corruption scandal.

[President Johnson]

April 3, 1974: Congress passes bill to create cabinet-level Energy Department



Since the administration’s proposed energy bill, that included both the creation of an own energy department as well as market deregulations, was de-facto stalled in congress, the president reluctantly decided to split up the legislation. Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey reportedly advised the White House to do so in order to get at least one item passed. Subsequently, congress passed a law to establish an energy department with a majority within both respective caucuses. Only the conservative Republicans expressed their vocal opposition to an “additional government agency” that would create “too much bureaucracy”. After he signed the law, President Rockefeller said he intends to nominate an energy secretary soon.


April 7, 1974: Albert Brewer runs for senate, pushing sitting Dixiecrat aside



He wants to go to Washington: Governor Albert Brewer (D-AL) seeks election to the senate after his term as Alabama's chief executive is up

As early as 1972, Alabama Governor Albert Brewer indicated his interest in becoming a senator once his gubernatorial term expires in early 1975. After signs in recent months strongly pointed in the direction that he’ll run, Governor Brewer now launched is official senatorial campaign at a rally in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Mr. Brewer, 45 years old, is highly popular among liberal Democrats since he became the first governor of his state to reach out to the disenfranchised black community, sought their support and passed several progressive reforms such as a modernization of the education system and investments in the infrastructure and the environment. He rose to national prominence after beating George Wallace in the 1970 Democratic primary for governor; an office he inherited following the death of Wallace’s wife in 1968. In 1972, he was a potential vice presidential candidate for RFK and gave the official Democratic response to President Rockefeller’s 1974 state of the union message. Four days before the official campaign launch, incumbent senator James B. Allen announced his retirement from office, leaving Brewer as only serious candidate in the primary. Allen, a conservative Dixiecrat, officially cited health concerns for his decision, but a February poll showed him trailing Brewer, who has a 55% approval rating as governor. Insiders told the press that Allen feared a similar defeat as happend to George Wallace in 1970. In his announcement speech, the governor said he wanted to campaign on “better schools, worker’s and civil rights, funding for the infrastructure and more bipartisanship on foreign affairs”. He also added he would like to be a passionate voice for the “New South” in the nation’s capital, standing for “freedom, civility and faith”.



As a result of Brewer's candidacy, incumbent James B. Allen said in advance he wouldn't seek reelection, leaving the popular governor as the only serious contender

Brewer quickly picked up key endorsements after his jump-in, especially from several moderate or liberal Southern Democrats such as Senators Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) and Lawton Chiles (D-FL). Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter, Senate Leader Hubert Humphrey, Bobby Kennedy and former President Lyndon Johnson also announced their support for Brewer’s candidacy.

During a radio interview on April 10, Brewer said he was not interested in running for president in 1976. Since the 1972 election, he was frequently mentioned as a potential contender for the Democratic nomination. “I’m running to represent the people of Alabama in the senate for a six year term. What comes after that, we have to see”, the governor remarked.


April 15, 1974: John B. Anderson nominated for Energy Secretary



John B. Anderson leaves his post as White House Chief of Staff and is nominated by President Rockefeller to be America's first Secretary of Energy. Many believe this position fits him better although he earned great respect while the president's door keeper in the White House

Surprising announcement at the White House: President Nelson Rockefeller announced that John B. Anderson is going to be his nominee for the newly created post of Energy Secretary. In his role as White House Chief of Staff, Mr. Anderson was actively involved in energy policy. The former Illinois congressman, a liberal Republican, advocates to use more diverse energy resources to make the US energy-independent by the next decade. At the press briefing presenting his choice, President Rockefeller said: “With this appointment, I want to give John the opportunity to work on an issue, he has shown great interest and passion in. I know that John, whom I gotten to know very well these 14 months, is the right man to work for solutions on the important field of energy. Both as congressman and Chief of Staff, he has shown integrity, competence and devotion for his cause.” Anderson himself spoke of a “great honor”. Political observers agreed that this role would be a better fit for Anderson, who was a well-respected Chief of Staff but never became a member of the president’s most inner-circle to the degree of someone like Henry Kissinger, who is obviously the closest aide to Rocky within the White House.


Charles Goodell takes over as White House Chief of Staff



Former New York Senator Charles Goodell will replace John B. Anderson to run the Rockefeller White House

Subsequently to John B. Anderson’s nomination as Energy Secretary, President Rockefeller made his selection of former Senator Charles Goodell as new Chief of Staff known. Goodell, a Rockefeller loyalist since the 1960s was appointed by then-governor Rockefeller to fill the senate vacancy left by Bobby Kennedy following the latter’s election to the vice presidency in 1968. In 1970, Goodell lost reelection in a three-way race against conservative James Buckley. Later, he worked on the Rockefeller presidential campaign and became co-chair of the President’s Infrastructure Council in 1973. Mr. Goodell will continue to serve on the board while leading the White House intern operations.


April 29, 1974: Economic report gives administration reason for concern



President Rockefeller was not pleased with the economic report that came out

As April was coming to a close, the most recent economic report showed emerging difficulties, what should be a reason to worry for the Rockefeller Administration. First quarter 1974 growth slowed down to 0.5%. The month of March was even negative (-0.2%), while April is also projected to be negative. Unemployment rose to 6.8% while inflation hit 7.5% and continues to climb. Especially the energy prices significantly increased as a result of the oil crisis. The latter caused a group of congressional Republicans to call for budget cuts in the 1974/75 fiscal year, which is expected to exceed 20 billion dollar in red. A spokesman for President Rockefeller used the opportunity for middle-class tax cuts to stimulate private consumption, which also took a hit in the first quarter of this year.


Late April 1974: Rockefeller White House allegedly tries to recruit high-profile Republicans to run for office, urges Ronald Reagan to run for senate


While Ronald Reagan was reconsidering to run for senate, Paul Laxalt already got into the race to represent his homestate of Nevada in the upper house of congress

Ahead of the Midterm-elections in November, it became evident that the Republicans needed strong candidates to either gain mandates or at least keep their current ones. A White House leak revealed, according to the New York Times on April 26, that a strategic meeting in the White House took place earlier this month in order to get leading Republicans to run for office; especially the senate was a target since the Democratic majority was relatively close (53-47 seats). It should be noted, though, that the House majority (227-208) was equally narrow but the Democrats were expected to pick up about 10 seats according to current projections.

In California, there was a senate election coming up in which incumbent Alan Cranston was seeking a second term in office. Although he earlier declined, the Republicans hoped to turn this race into a toss-up by sending up outgoing governor Ronald Reagan. President Rockefeller reportedly got on the phone and told the Gipper that he wanted him to run for this seat. Reagan allegedly told his former rival that was “reconsidering”. A Plan B was according to insiders Lieutenant Governor Robert Finch, an ally of Richard Nixon. Finch was actually willing to run if Reagan doesn’t and both Rockefeller and Nixon probably preferred him to the Gipper but admitted that, as Rocky reportedly said at the meeting “Ronnie is our strongest guy here.” In neighboring Nevada, another potential pick-up, the Rockefeller Administration was successful in getting outgoing governor Paul Laxalt into the race. Although a conservative, Laxalt spoke high of the president since he got into office. Another important race was South Dakota, where the Republicans hoped to unseat George McGovern, but they lacked a high-profile candidate here. Additionally, the president himself reportedly got involved into the Indiana senate race, where he got 42-year old Indianapolis Mayor Richard Lugar, a moderate Republican, to run against Senator Birch Bayh. Rockefeller met Lugar at an event when he visited the city last year and spoke highly of him. Journalists wrote that the Republicans have an outsider chance to take the senate if President Rockefeller manages to keep his approvals above water until November and the economy improves. Especially the economy was key factor here, as many noted. So far, President Rockefeller received the strongest support for his foreign policy, but that was hardly a factor in these down-ballot races. Even Democrats under Franklin D. Roosevelt suffered from major losses in 1942, the midst of World War II, while the president was getting high grades for his conduct of foreign policy.


April 30, 1974: New Gallup poll

President Rockefeller’s approval rating in April dropped six points compared to last month, while is disapproval numbers climbed to 35% for the first time. His numbers overall are still pretty solid, but political observers begun to speculate whether the most recent declined was linked to the economic developments.


President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 56%
Disapprove: 35%

[President Johnson]

May 3, 1974: Israel pulls back behind Suez Canal, Middle East peace talks to begin soon

Good news from the Middle East: Israel agreed to a withdrawal agreement to pull back to the east side of the Suez Canal. The agreement was negotiated by Secretary of State Richard Nixon over the course of his talks with the regional powers in the Middle East. Such an agreement was a pre-condition for any peace talks between Israel and Egypt. During his state visit in Jerusalem earlier this year, President Rockefeller also emphasized to make such a concession. Nixon in a public statement expressed his optimism that a lasting solution can be found.


May 6, 1974: Oil embargo against United States ends



Secretary of State Richard Nixon's negotiations with key players of the Arab world proved to be sucsessful in ending the oil embargo

Following Israel’s decision and as a result of Richard Nixon’s negotiations, OPEC officially decided the end the oil embargo against the United States and other American allies. President Rockefeller welcomed the move and unsigned some of the sanctions he imposed in the fall of last year as a retaliation. Asked whether this would impact his search for additional oil trading partners, the president said “no”.


May 20, 1974: President Rockefeller signs Student Exchange Act



On May 20, 1974, President Rockefeller signs the Student Exchange Act into law

It is the first major legislation related to the administration’s new Latin America policy: With the administration’s staunch support, congress enacted a new student-exchange program with countries of Latin and South America. Especially Mexico is expected to benefit from the program that eases foreign students to enter American universities. Under the law, additional benefits are being granted for students who start businesses in the United States after their graduation. It also makes it easier for these students get a permanent legal status in America. Furthermore, the act increases federal funding for education that was first passed under the Johnson Administration in 1965. The entire bill gained large support from both parties in congress. President Rockefeller spoke of a milestone when he signed the measure into law.


May 22, 1974: Bill to deregulate energy market fails in House, is a budget fight ahead?



The House of Representatives narrowly voted down a bill to deregulate the energy market

The president and his team lobbied hard for his bill to deregulate the energy market in order to reduce overall cost of energy. After Senators McGovern and Muskie filibustered a comprehensive energy law in the senate, the White House was determined to push a deregulation bill through the House first. Vice President Ford, using his contacts in the House, made it possible that Speaker Albert agreed to a floor vote. However, on May 22, the measure was narrowly voted down 221 – 210. In the end, even some Republicans voted against it while a dozen of southern Democrats cast their vote in favor. The vote was major defeat for the Rockefeller Administration. Soon after, President Rockefeller through a spokesman said he wanted to use the measure as an issue in the upcoming budget negotiations. Political observers expressed their suspicion the issue may cause a budget fight ahead of the midterm election. “President Rockefeller is so determined to get this done that he may use is veto power over the budget to pressure the Democratic congress”, a Washington Post article read. Subsequently, Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey again said he was opposed to the bill. Most Republicans, especially from the conservative wing, praised Rocky for his determination and encouraged him to take the fight.

[America Needs R'hllor]

Cranston, Reid, McGovern and Bayh 1974!

[OSR stands with Israel]

Reagan 1974!!!!

[President Johnson]

May 23, 1974: Ronald Reagan backs off senate candidacy, Nixon ally running instead



Governor Reagan talking to journalists at his announcement not to run for senate

“The senate is simply not the role I see myself in the future although it is always a high honor to be considered to serve in this body”, outgoing California Governor Ronald Reagan said at a press briefing in Sacramento on May 23. “Nevertheless, I want to be as helpful as I can to get Republican candidates elected across the board. I thank President Rockefeller for his confidence and trust in me.” Political observers agreed that the Gipper, just like Rocky, likes the executive branch much better. Close aides to Reagan told journalists that their boss in fact prefers to be the “policy making guy” instead of being one of 100 lawmakers at Capitol Hill, where processes are often moving pretty slowly. They also told press members Reagan is considering a television career in the form of a political talk show, possibly in an effort to stay in public focus without holding an office and keeping the doors for a 1980 presidential run open.



Lieutenant Governor Robert Finch instead runs against Senator Alan Cranston in California

Weeks an in advance, California Lieutenant Governor Robert Finch has filled to run in the Republican primary. With Reagan’s ultimate decline, he is going to end up as Senator Alan Cranston’s challenger. Shortly after Reagan’s announcement, Finch received endorsements from President Rockefeller, Vice President Ford and other top-Republicans including Governor Reagan and Secretary of State Nixon. The latter has been an ally of Finch for quite a few years. And probably the more moderate Finch is the preferred candidate for the White House. The general election is expected a toss-up with Cranston slightly favored. Nevertheless, in April President Rockefeller had a 59% approval rating in the Golden State, similar to Governor Reagan (60%).


May 31, 1974: New Gallup poll

The trend from the last poll is confirmed: President Rockefeller’s approval rating has dropped to the mid 50s. That is still not bad, but considering that he lost about ten points since the year begun shouldn’t be taken too easy, considering that the midterms are about six months away and the economy so far hasn’t shown any signs of improvement. In the May poll, Democrats also pulled ahead in generic ballot by four points while the last one showed a tie.


President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 55%
Disapprove: 37%


1974 congressional elections – generic ballot
Democratic: 46%
Republican: 42%


June 4, 1974: President Rockefeller issues Vietnam Draft-Dodgers plan



President Rockefeller announces and signs a presidential proclamation for a conditional amnesty for Vietnam draft-dodgers; June 4, 1974

During the 1972 campaign, Bobby Kennedy promised a full presidential amnesty to all Vietnam Draft Dodgers. Nelson Rockefeller on the other hand said he favored a different approach: Granting clemency under certain conditions after President Johnson left the decision on the matter to his successor. Over the late spring 1974, his advisers worked out a plan the president now finally approved. On June 4, Rocky signed a presidential proclamation during a live-televised address to the nation. The proclamation introduces a conditional amnesty program for military deserters and Vietnam War draft dodgers who fled America, mostly to Canada. The conditions of the amnesty required that those reaffirm their allegiance to the United States and serve one year working in a public service job or a total of two years service for those who had served less than two years of honorable service in the military. The program for the return of Vietnam Era Draft Evaders and Military Deserters also established a Clemency Board to review the records and make recommendations for receiving a presidential pardon. A majority of both Democrats and Republicans at Capitol Hill agreed to the plan, although congress doesn’t have a formal role in the process. President Rockefeller resisted calls from the liberal Democratic wing such as former senator and presidential candidate Eugene McCarthy, who demanded a full pardon. George McGovern, who also favored full amnesty, called the plan “not too bad for a Republican president.”


June 15, 1974: President Rockefeller signs historic Clean Water Act of 1974



One June 15, 1974, President Rockefeller signed another landmark environmental bill into law

After months of negotiations with lawmakers, federal authorities and private businesses, congress passed a comprehensive Clean Water Act with the votes of a majority from both Democrats and Republicans. President Nelson Rockefeller signed the measure into law on June 18, 1974 at the White House and praised all involving parties for their cooperation. The act was the second major piece of legislation that was enacted under the Rockefeller Administration and of the most far-reaching in the United States. Its primary objective is to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the America's waters by preventing point and nonpoint pollution sources, providing assistance to publicly owned treatment works for the improvement of wastewater treatment, and maintaining the integrity of wetlands. The implementation is managed by the EPA that was established under a 1973 law. A New York Times Article from the next day noted that the Rockefeller Administration is “setting standards in environmental policy.”


June 30, 1974: New polls, including for 1976!

On June 30, half of the year has passed. Time for some additional polls: President Rockefeller’s post-inauguration honeymoon was definitely over now although his approval rating remains at a solid level. It’s about equal to Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966 at the same time (one and a half year after taking office he was just beginning of his elected term, therefore we compare his numbers to mid-1966 and not early 1965).

Looking ahead to 1976, there not that much change within the Democratic field, with Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter, who made is name nationally known after being RFK’s running mate in 1972, leading the pack by a small margin. Senator George McGovern continues to poll well among Democrats, getting his support largely from the left wing of the party. Another notable (potential) contender is Maine Senator Edmund Muskie, who is in double digits as well. Bobby Kennedy, Albert Brewer and Nicholas Katzenbach are not included as in the previous since all three declined to run. Nevertheless, President Rockefeller still leads all potential challengers in hypothetical match-ups at this moment.


President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 54%
Disapprove: 38%


1976 Democratic Party presidential nomination

Governor Jimmy Carter: 20%
Senator George McGovern: 18%
Senator Edmund Muskie: 11%
Senator Lloyd Bentsen: 9%
Senator Scoop Jackson: 8%
Governor Reubin Askew: 7%
Representative Mo Udall: 6%
Senator Frank Church: 3%
Governor Milton Shapp: 2%
Senator Robert Byrd: 2%
Senator Ted Kennedy: 2%
Someone else/undecided: 14%


1976 hypothetical general election match-ups

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 50%
Jimmy Carter (D): 43%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 54%
George McGovern (D): 39%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 51%
Edmund Muskie (D): 43%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 51%
Lloyd Bentsen (D): 40%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 50%
Scoop Jackson (D): 41%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 51%
Reubin Askew (D): 41%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 51%
Mo Udall (D): 39%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 52%
Frank Church (D): 41%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 51%
Milton Shapp (D): 40%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 55%
Robert Byrd (D): 38%

Nelson Rockefeller (R, inc.): 53%
Ted Kennedy (D): 40%

[TheMiddlePolitical]

Hey man I'm new to this forum this makes this my favorite forum of all time! ahah. I've read this entire thing the past two days, amazing work!

[President Johnson]

Hey man I'm new to this forum this makes this my favorite forum of all time! ahah. I've read this entire thing the past two days, amazing work!

Thanks, and welcome to the forum!

[President Johnson]

July 10, 1974: President Rockefeller vetoes federal pension bill



Concerned about the deficit, President Rockefeller for the first time vetoed a major spending bill

One and a half years into his term, President Nelson Rockefeller first used his veto power on major legislation. The Democratic congress, with a number of Republican lawmakers, passed a pension increase to benefit retirees, especially former government employees. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), which was just established earlier this year under legislation the president signed, the expected cost increases were at least 500 million dollars. As the 1974/75 budget, which still needed passage, was already expected to run a 14 billion dollar deficit, President Rockefeller was determined to block additional spending. Although Rocky previously sounded open to sign the bill, White House interns said various advisers of the president, including Chief of Staff Goodell and Vice President Ford, urged him to ?hold the line on spending? as we?re going into the midterms. In his veto message, Nelson Rockefeller outlined that in times of economic difficulty, additional debt was unaffordable and that government must ?tighten its belt.?

Speaker Carl Albert rejected calls for an override attempt in the House because he was aware that there were not enough votes to overrule the presidential veto with a 2/3 majority.


Printing press: Rockefeller governs more to the right on economic issues than expected

?President Rockefeller?s veto of the pension bill and his reluctance to increase the minimum wage shows that he his governing more to the right than many people expected at the domestic front?, the New York Times wrote in an editorial on July 12. The article further reads: ?Although it is undeniable that he passed some sweeping progressive reforms on the environment and women?s rights, he is moving to the right of center on economic issues. Another proof is his hesitation to touch the healthcare issue. Senator Ted Kennedy is pushing for it and will do even more so after the midterms if the Democrats gain seats, and then we?ll see what the president is doing.? Other political insiders pointed to the difficult economic conditions that make it unable to expand government benefits and the ongoing skeptic on the Republican right. ?The president needs full support from his party of his reelection in 1976?, the Chicago Tribune wrote. ?It is possible that we see a shift after the next election and an improved economy?, the Tribune concluded its article.


July 31, 1974: New Galup poll

President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 54%
Disapprove: 39%


August 1974: Economic situation deteriorates



The ongoing economic downturn was bad new for the Rockefeller White House, as seen here in August 1974

Although the oil crisis was politically resolved, the US still had to deal with its economic impact. High spending from programs mainly from the Johnson era and the high defense budget caused a rising inflation. In the second quarter of 1974, it rose to 8% while unemployment reached almost 8% as well. Economic growth was not effectively 0%. On August 15, 1974, a group of conservative lawmakers, led by Senator Robert Taft (R-OH) and John Sparkman (D-AL) issued a ?manifesto for recovery?, calling for a broad range of reforms: A sizeable cut in spending, tax cuts across the board to stimulate the economy and the repeal of several government regulations. The White House formally didn?t comment, but even Vice President Ford said that some ?good points? are in the paper. He also renewed the administration?s demand to deregulate the energy market and impose tax cuts for the middle class, something that President Rockefeller called for during a campaign speech in New York back in July. Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey said he wouldn?t allow any law to pass that ?hurts our workers? and emphasized the need to increase the minimum wage to 2.10 dollars, any idea that Senator Barry Goldwater (R-AZ) called ?irresponsible?. Political observers already remembered the 1970 midterm elections that saw major Republican gains following a declining economy. However, they noted, this time the situation was more serious than four years earlier.


August 31, 1974: New Galup poll

Stable over June and July, in the late August 1974 Gallup poll, President Rockefeller's approval rating dropped to 51%, the lowest so far in his presidency. Meanwhile, disapproval hit 43%, another record so far. The generic ballot for the upcoming midterm elections has a clear Democratic advantage now.

President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 51%
Disapprove: 43%

1974 congressional elections ? generic ballot
Democratic: 47%
Republican: 40%


September 2, 1974: Salvador Allende dies in Cuban exile, Castro accuses US of assassination plot



On September 2, 1974, Salvador Allende was reportedly dead; soon after, Fidel Castro accussed the United States of murder

In the early morning hours of September 2, 1974, news broke that Salvador Allende, the former president of Chile, whose government was de facto overthrown in the previous fall, has died of a heart attack at the of 66. Soon after his death, which was not commented by the Rockefeller Administration, Cuban Leader Fidel Castro publically accused the United States of an assassination plot. He claimed that Allende was poisoned by an exile Cuban who works for the CIA. Castro announced that Soviet medical experts would examine Allende?s body and issue a report within a few weeks. Calls by the official Chilean government to turn over the body to Santiago were repeatedly denied by Havana. On September 5, Secretary of State Richard Nixon responded on the administration?s behalf and called the accessions a ?blunt lie and fabrication?. He also called on the Soviet Union to stop ?pretending the Cuban claims are reasonable? after Soviet Premier Kosygin said that Castro might have point. The Soviet Leader also threatened consequences for the SALT II negotiations if the accessions turn out to be true. At a press conference on September 7, President Rockefeller for the first time directly addressed the matter: ?The accusations by Castro and his food starved regime are absolutely false. If the USSR believes them and threatens the United States over ongoing negotiations, I would like to remind our friends in Moscow that such a treaty is in their interest because they can?t win an arms race.? Going in the fall, a question in everybody?s mind was: Is Allende?s death a test for US-Soviet relations?

[President Johnson]

September 13, 1974: Soviet report states that poisoning of Allende is ?likely?, threating US-Soviet relations



Eleven days after the death of ousted Chilean President Salvador Allende in Cuban exile, Soviet medical experts in Cuba issued a report that states that it is ?likely? that the former Socialist leader fell victim to a poison attack, leading to a fatal heart attack. ?If that was to be the case, the United States government is most likely involved in one form or another? the report further stated. The Kremlin was reportedly upset about the development and Premier Kosygin demanded immediate ?explanation? by the United States and spoke of a three day deadline, threatening consequences. Officials of the Rockefeller Administration rejected the claims and harshly responded to a deadline. Vice President Gerald Ford told the press: ?Nobody imposes deadlines on the United States. The Rockefeller/Ford Administration won?t allow America to be humiliated on the world stage.? Others like Secretary of State Richard Nixon called the claims ?ridiculous and false.? Nevertheless, even among US papers, doubts remained. The Washington Post openly questioned why the administration responded with such harsh language. Attorney General Spiro Agnew subsequently got involved in the discussion, when he said to the Post: ?Isn?t it a disgrace when a major US newspapers believes a foreign advisory government more than its own administration? I demand an apology.?

On September 17, 1974, the Politburo in Moscow announced that steps against the United States are being considered following the Rockefeller Administration?s refusal to further comment on Allende?s alleged assassination. On September 28, 1974, a Soviet sponsored UN resolution against the United States and the new government of Chile was vetoed by the United States, The Republic of China and Great Britain (France abstained from the vote what reportedly angered President Rockefeller).


September 18, 1974: President Rockefeller imposes arms embargo on Turkey following invasion of Cyprus



As a result of a Turkish invasion in Cyprus, President Rockefeller imposed an arms embargo on September 18, 1974

Another troublespot in the world: Back in August, Turkey invaded Cyprus and de facto put the northern part of the island under Turkish rule. On the administration?s behalf, Secretaries Nixon and Romney vehemently criticized the NATO partner for the move and threatened further consequences. Especially Nixon tried convince the president from a tough response. Finally, on September 18, President Rockefeller signed a law that imposed an arms embargo on Turkey. He also signed a decree suspending various cooperation programs with the Turkish military. In a public statement, he called for the restoration of the previous status and offered American diplomacy to resolve the conflicts on the island between Greek and Turkish population groups.


September 30, 1974: Government shutdown! Last minute budget negotiations failed, President Rockefeller vetoes spending bills



During the last hours of September, Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey had to announce that a government shutdown was to begin after budget negotiations with the Rockefeller Administration failed

A little more than a month ahead of the midterm elections, there is a government shutdown after negotiations between congressional leaders and the administration on the 1974/75 budget failed. Senate Democrats demanded higher spending on domestic programs to ?ease the impacts of the economic downturn?, while the administration was determined to reduce spending increases to keep the deficit somewhat under control. On the afternoon of September 30, Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey said at the White House that the talks ?were not successful?. Humphrey also demanded an increase of the minimum wage; an idea that President Rockefeller was open to, but demanded concessions on other areas and the passage of the energy market deregulation bill. Albert and Humphrey responded that they ?don?t have the votes to pass this?.

On midnight of September 30, the US government officially was shut down and only performed a limited number of essential services. The next day, it was announced that Senate Majority Leader Hubert Humphrey and Speaker Carl Albert would later meet for a private conversation with President Nelson Rockefeller and Vice President Gerald Ford in the Oval Office.


September 30, 1974: New Gallup polls

Just a little over a month until the midterm elections, the president's approval remains at 50%, while disapproval climed to 44%, the highest on record since Rocky's inauguration in January 1973. How will it impact the elections?


President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 50%
Disapprove: 44%


1974 congressional elections ? generic ballot
Democratic: 48%
Republican: 43%


Key issues for the midterms elections

Gallup also conducted a poll among likely voters, asking what issues are most important to them ahead of the midterm elections. Multiple answers were permitted in this survey.

The economy: 84%
World peace: 78%
Energy: 73%
Taxation: 54%
Health care: 40%
Drug policy: 39%
Infrastructure: 34%
Budget deficit: 33%
Environment: 28%
Education: 24%
Civil rights: 20%
Other government services: 18%
Other issues: 10%


New York gubernatorial election
Robert F. Kennedy (D)¹: 49%
Malcolm Wilson (R, inc.): 43%


New York senate election
Jacob K. Javits (R, inc.)¹: 44%
Ramsey Clark (D): 42%
Barbara Keating (Cons.): 12%

¹ Both Robert F. Kennedy, a Democrat, and Jacob Javits, a Republican, are supported by the local Liberal Party of New York. While the local Conservative Party endorsed Republican governor Malcolm Wilson, the pary nominated an own candidate in the senate race to oppose liberal Republican senator Jacob Javits


California senate election
Alan Cranston (D, inc.): 47%
Robert Finch (R): 45%


California gubernatorial election
Houston Flournoy (R): 49%
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D): 44%

[America Needs R'hllor]

Kennedt, Javits, Cranston and Brown!

[President Johnson]

Kennedt, Javits, Cranston and Brown!

"Kennedt" is 100% certain not to be elected

[President Johnson]

October 4, 1974: President Rockefeller signs compromise budget into law, ending govt. shutdown

[/td][/tr][/table]

Will Senator Jacob Javits hold on to his seat or does former Attorney General Ramsey Clark win a mandate in the senate to represent New York?

Another important race in New York was the senate contest. Liberal Republican incumbent Jacob Javits was still slightly favored to win reelection, but far from being safe. Most recent polls showed a pure toss-up. He was challenged by Democrat Ramsey Clark, who served as U.S. Attorney General under President Lyndon Johnson from 1967 to 1973. Clark was actively supported by his former boss and, of course, Bobby Kennedy, with whom he frequntly appeared on stage. A great source of uncertainty in this race was the candidacy of conservative Barbara Keating, who polled at low double-digits and is likely to take votes away from Jacob Javits. Javits was never liked by the right wing of the Republican Party, what caused the local Conservative Party to name on own candidate (they supported Governor Wilson though). During the second half of October, Keating hoped for a high-profile endorsement by California Governor Ronald Reagan, but the Gipper stayed out of this race to avoid a feud with President Rockefeller, who staunchly backed his old friend Javits. Reagan only once appeared in the state to campaign with Governor Wilson (California Republicans actually were unhappy that the Gipper spent a lot of time outside his state instead of helping local GOP contenders).


October 31, 1974: New Gallup polls

Almost no move on President Rockefeller's numbers, while Democrats expanded their generic ballot lead. In Califonrnia, Democrats surged in both the sente and governor's race while the New York gubernatorial race tightens.

President Rockefeller job approval
Approve: 50%
Disapprove: 43%


1974 congressional elections – generic ballot
Democratic: 50%
Republican: 44%


New York gubernatorial election
Robert F. Kennedy (D)¹: 49%
Malcolm Wilson (R, inc.): 46%


New York senate election
Jacob K. Javits (R, inc.)¹: 44%
Ramsey Clark (D): 43%
Barbara Keating (Cons.): 10%

¹ Both Robert F. Kennedy, a Democrat, and Jacob Javits, a Republican, are supported by the local Liberal Party of New York. While the local Conservative Party endorsed Republican governor Malcolm Wilson, the pary nominated an own candidate in the senate race to oppose liberal Republican senator Jacob Javits


California senate election
Alan Cranston (D, inc.): 53%
Robert Finch (R): 44%


California gubernatorial election
Houston Flournoy (R): 48%
Edmund G. Brown Jr. (D): 47%

[OSR stands with Israel]

Will you do full midterm coverage


Anyway go Wilson

[President Johnson]

Will you do full midterm coverage


Anyway go Wilson

Should I? I planned just to post the results with maps and give some analysis. I'll do a full coverage in 1976 of course.

[OSR stands with Israel]

Will you do full midterm coverage


Anyway go Wilson

Should I? I planned just to post the results with maps and give some analysis. I'll do a full coverage in 1976 of course.

Would be interesting but it would be better if you do what you have already planned

[Peanut]

This is great! You should consider doing the midterm coverage. It'd be interesting if RFK pulls a Nixon (loses NY-Gov, then comes back six years later.)
I just read the whole timeline- it's really, really good!

[President Johnson]

★★★ United States Midterm elections; November 5, 1974 ★★★

It was Election Day in America, November 5, 1974. In the middle of President Nelson Rockefeller’s first term in office voters were heading to the polls to elect all 435 members of the House of Representatives for a two year term, a third of the senate for a six year tenure, several governorships (mostly four year terms) and state legislatures. In addition, some local elections at the county and municipal level took place as well.


Senate results

Dark red/blue = Democratic/Republican hold
Light red/blue = Democratic/Republican gain
Light Green = Independent Democratic gain
Very light blue = Conservative (NY) gain
Grey = No senate election in 1974

Senate composition: 55 Democratic (net change ▲3 seats); 44 Republican (net change▼3 seats); 1 Independent Democrat (▬ no change)
DEMOCRATIC CONTROL (Majority: 51 seats)


Pickups and notable races

Alabama
✓ Albert Brewer (D): 91.5%
Alvin Abercrombie (Proh.): 7.3%
Incumbent Democrat retired, Democratic hold

Arizona
✓ Barry Goldwater (R, inc.): 59.3%
Jonathan Marshall (D): 39.9%

California
✓ Alan Cranston (D, inc.): 56.5%
Robert Finch (R): 42.4%

Colorado
✓ Gary Hart (D): 51.2%
Peter H. Dominick (R, inc.): 48.5%
Incumbent lost reelection, Democratic gain

Florida
✓ Richard Stone (D): 42.6%
Jack Eckerd (R): 41.9%
John Grady (American): 14.7%
Republican incumbent retired, Democratic gain

Idaho
✓ Frank Church (D, inc.): 54.2%
Robert L. Smith (R): 45.0%

Indiana
✓ Birch Bayh (D, inc.) 49.5%
Richard Lugar (R): 48.7%

Kentucky
✓ Wendell Ford (D) 50.2%
Marlow Cook (R, inc.): 47.5%
Incumbent lost reelection, Democratic gain

Nevada
✓ Paul Laxalt (R): 47.3%
Harry Reid (D): 44.5%
Democratic incumbent retired, Republican gain

New Hampshire
✓ Louis C. Wyman (R): 49.9%
John A. Durkin (D): 49.3%
Republican incumbent retired, Republican hold

New York
✓ Jacob K. Javits (R, inc.): 46.4%
Ramsey Clark (D): 39.3%
Barbara Keating (Cons.): 13.5%

South Dakota
✓ George McGovern (D, inc.): 52.5%
Leo K. Thorsness (R): 47.5%

Vermont
✓ Patrick Leahy (D): 49.0%
Richard W. Mallary (R): 46.9%
Republican incumbent retired, Democratic gain

Note: The senate incumbents are a result of the 1968 senate election, which can be found on page 2 (and not the actual RL results).


House of Representatives Results



House composition: 252 Democratic (net change ▲25 seats); 183 Republican (net change▼25 seats)
DEMOCRATIC CONTROL (Majority: 218 seats)


Notable governor’s races

Alabama
✓ Jere Beasley (D): 71.5%
Elvin McCary (R): 27.3%
Democratic incumbent term-limited, Democratic hold

California
Edmund G. Brown (D): 49.5%
Houston I. Flournoy (R): 49.5%
Undecided, recount necessary

New York
✓ Robert F. Kennedy (D): 54.5%
Malcolm Wilson (R, inc.): 45.0%
Republican incumbent lost reelection, Democratic gain


Summary: The Democratic revival

As already expected in advance, the midterm election resulted in major gains for the Democratic opposition. Two years after losing a close presidential race that also resulted into the closest House majority for a long time, the voters threw 25 of President Nelson Rockefeller’s fellow Republicans out of the House. A total of 27 Republicans lost reelection while only two Republicans were able to pick up Democratic held seats. The Democrats were able to convince voters that the administration was at least in part to be blamed for the nation’s ongoing economic difficulties. Remembering the long streak of economic growth, low inflation and unemployment during the twelve years of presidents John Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson, the American people decided to strengthen Democrats’ position in Washington. In the senate, Democrats picked up a total of four mandates. The only Republican who won a formerly Democratic seat was Paul Laxalt in Nevada. The outgoing governor of that state and personal friend of Ronald Reagan won a close election over young Harry Raid. In New Hampshire and Indiana, Republican office seekers came close to winning a senate seat. In New York, incumbent senator Jacob Javits, a liberal Republican, was able to beat former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark, the Democratic candidate, and Conservative Barbara Keating with a plurality of the vote. And despite Attorney General Spiro Agnew heavily campaigning against him, Senator George McGovern was successful in defending his mandate by a relatively close margin. With his reelection, McGovern could now focus on preparing a presidential run in 1976, which was almost certain at this point. In the state of Alabama, popular outgoing governor Albert Brewer won a de facto unopposed election to the senate. He was also able to install his lieutenant governor Jere Beasley, a moderate, as successor in the Governor’s Mansion since George Wallace declined to run for his old job. All in all, the senate results now give the Democratic caucus a total of 56 seats, the highest number since the 1968 election (independent Harry F. Byrd of Virginia caucuses with the Democrats). Republicans now hold, including Conservative James Buckley of New York, a total of 44 seats.

Going into the second half of his first term, President Rockefeller was now required to even closer cooperate with the Democratic opposition if he wanted to pass meaningful items through congress. The most pressing issue to tackle for the next months was the economy; an area, where both sides preferred different approaches. But political observers expressed their confidence that rational compromises were possible between this political-center oriented administration and the congressional leadership. In other political fields such as foreign policy, the environment, consumer protection, infrastructure and civil rights, more common ground could be found between the two sides. But the president, as the New York Times wrote in an analysis, should also be careful not to move too much to the left and anger the Republican right (they could argue that their man Paul Laxalt was the only Republican to win a senate seat from the Democrats). To bolster his position for 1976, Rocky needed full support from the Republican Party in addition to Independents and some Democrats (he proved that he could appeal to these groups in the past). With Ronald Reagan showing no signs to back off from supporting Rockefeller’s reelection ambitions, it seemed likely that the president was at least safe to win the Republican nomination in 1976 uncontested.


RFK is back! Bobby Kennedy wins New York governorship, unseating Rockefeller ally



Bobby Kennedy gives his victory speech in New York following his election to the governorship

Aside from congress, the eyes of nation were upon the New York gubernatorial election, which produced a clear winner: Former vice president Robert F. Kennedy over performed most recent opinion polls and scored an easy victory over incumbent Republican Malcolm Wilson. Kennedy received 54.5% of the vote compared to Wilson’s 45%. RFK’s campaign was successful in turning out many undecided voters in the final days, convincing them that after 16 years of Republican rule in Albany, it was time for a change. So he is going to be the first Democratic governor of New York since 1959. In addition, he did pretty well in Democratic stronghold New York City with a high turnout among African Americans in the Bronx (a good many also voted for Nelson Rockefeller in previous elections). In his victory speech, RFK thanked all his supporters and remarked that he was “deeply honored for trust and confidence” he received at the polls. He subsequently promised a “new frontier” for state by working for better life conditions, affordable healthcare and a more rational approach to crime policy. At a reporter's request, he also made his intention to serve the full four year term very clear. "I have no intention at all to run for president in '76", he said, "my focus for the coming four years is going to be the servant of the people of New York. I am deeply grateful that they gave me the opportunity to be their governor."

For the White House, the election outcome in New York was a huge disappointment, considering the fact that the president himself heavily campaigned for Governor Wilson, his former deputy. Especially the almost ten point loss was a shocker since most recent polls showed a tightening race. Some relief for Rocky out of New York provided the fair victory of his friend Senator Jacob Javits, who would stay on for another six years, being a reliable ally for the White House.

In addition to RFK's victory, his fellow Democrats also won several down-ballot races and majorities in both legislative chambers in Albany (only Rockefeller ally Louis Lefkowitz, the state attorney general, won reelection in a statewide race other than Senator Javits). The new Democratic majorities (plus the liberal GOP faction) make it easy for Governor-elect Kennedy to push through his ambitious agenda for the Empire State. Nevertheless, the economic conditions provide certain limits to the spending programs the newely elected chief executive proposed during his campaign.


A recount in California to replace Ronald Reagan!




Jerry Brown (l) or Houston Flournoy, who was going to be the next governor of California? On election night, the outcome of this race was not termined since it was so extremely close.

While the outcome of the gubernatorial election in the nation’s second largest state was not in question, California as the most populated state hung in the balance. The result was so extremely close, that a recount would be necessary. After 100% of the votes were in, Democratic candidate Edmund G. “Jerry” Brown, son of former governor and current Supreme Court judge Pat Brown, had a very narrow lead over Republican Houston I. Flournoy. Both contenders were separated by about 500 votes out of over 6.2 million ballots cast. Sheldom was any election that close (by comparison, the presidential election outcome in 1972 was considered extremly narrow, but Rocky beat RFK here by approximately 50,000 votes).

The current vote count (100% reported):

Edmund G. Brown (D): 3,093,447 (49.50%)
Houston I. Flournoy (R): 3,092,938 (49.48%)

On the morning of November 6, both Ronald Reagan as sitting governor and Jerry Brown, as secretary of state the chief elections officer, recused themselves from the entire process. Brown, who had to certify the election results, said he would certify any final result presented to him after the recount. Major politicans of both parties and the press praised Reagan and Brown for their handling of the situation.

Soon after election day, some Republicans in California already started blaming the Gipper for campaigning too much outside the state. They believe that had the popular retiring governor been more focused on the race to succeed him, Flournoy would have won in the first place. Reagan's team, however, did not respond to these backroom comments.


Next: President Rockefeller to address the nation on election outcome!

[Cold War Liberal]

This is awesome. Looking forward to '76, I might actually have voted for Rocky in that year had this been reality (and had I been born yet)

[Sir Mohamed]

Yeeeees! Governor Kennedy! Hope Brown makes it as well.

Curious to see how it goes on, especially in 1976. I'd probably vote for Rockefeller this time around, but Dem down-ballot.

[America Needs R'hllor]

Yay! Other than Nevada, where I'd enthusiastically support Reid over Laxalt, these are just the results I hoped for. Go Brown!