Alternative 1988: Babbitt/Gephardt vs. duPont/Alexander

[Robespierre's Jaw]

Here's the scenario:

Former Governor of Arizona, Bruce Babbitt wins the 1988 Democratic nomination. For Vice President, Governor Babbitt selects Congressman Dick Gephardt of Missourit. On the Republican side, darkhorse candidate, Governor of Delaware, Pete duPont surprisingly wins the GOP nomination. For Vice President, Governor duPont selects former Governor Lamar Alexander of Tennessee.

The tickets:

(D): Bruce Babbitt/Dick Gephardt
(R): Pete duPont/Lamar Alexander

Discuss with maps.

[Dr. Cynic]

Babbitt was an intelligent man, but on TV he had a serious problem... He looked not just uneasy, but often terrified on camera. That's why he dropped out in the first place... He couldn't get elected for one and if he did, his Presidency would be a media disaster... He could not win.

[WalterMitty]

Babbitt was an intelligent man, but on TV he had a serious problem... He looked not just uneasy, but often terrified on camera. That's why he dropped out in the first place... He couldn't get elected for one and if he did, his Presidency would be a media disaster... He could not win.

youre right.

he was also advocating a national sales tax.

pete 'dont call me pierre' dupont was also ahead of his time on the issue of social security reform.

[Lincoln Republican]

A victory of landslide proportions for duPont. 

duPont was intelligent and capable, with a firm hand on executive management.  He had almost unlimited resources at his disposal. 

Babbit, though capable, was very underwhelming. 

The Democrats do not break through in the south.  Some traditional Democratic states, notably New York, opt for duPont, due to his broader appeal.  duPont would not frighten away moderate voters.

duPont/Alexander                472
Babbit/Gephardt                     66