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Historico
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« Reply #25 on: January 02, 2009, 07:16:43 PM »

So when can we expect the next installment?
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hcallega
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« Reply #26 on: January 02, 2009, 08:54:21 PM »

Very well thought out. Here's a few things I like, and some I don't
1-Smathers makes a whole lot of sense. Anti-communist, southern, and a Kennedy supporter. I would have liked to see Sanford, but Smathers is good too.
2-Johnson withdrawing on his own sounds a little sketchy. It does sound like Bobby and other Kennedy allies persuaded him to do it.
3-Texas going to Goldwater after Dallas!!!!?Huh??!!!!! I can see the south and inner-west, but not Texas.
Besides that, fantastic update!
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« Reply #27 on: January 03, 2009, 02:37:23 PM »

Drop Johnson? No, certainly not. Johnson had ambition, too.
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« Reply #28 on: January 03, 2009, 11:23:02 PM »

LBJ was going to seek another term, but Connally's death had a major impact on him, and he just couldn't go again.
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« Reply #29 on: January 04, 2009, 04:02:52 PM »


The Second Term of John F. Kennedy

“This country demands action, and it demands action now!  I am asking Congress to pass the complete legislative package that I am sending them, so that we may achieve our Great Society!”

The first piece of legislation Kennedy sends to Congress in the Voting Rights Act of 1965.  Written by Attorney General Bobby Kennedy, and introduced into the Senate by Senator Ralph Yarborough (D-TX), the Act would outlaw the practice of requiring otherwise qualified voters to pass literacy tests in order to register to vote, a principal means by which southern states had prevented African-Americans from exercising the franchise.  It would also establish federal oversight of elections administration.

From the beginning, it became clear that the South intended to filibuster the legislation.  Deciding against utilizing the tactic used to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Kennedy asks Majority Leader Mike Mansfield (D-MT), to allow the South to filibuster, while working behind the scenes to gain Republican support.  On March 23, Mansfield decides he has enough votes, and calls for cloture.  By a vote of 69-31, cloture is achieved, and on March 30, by a vote of 67-33, the Senate passes the Voting Rights Act.

When the VRA reaches the House, though, it encounters even more difficulty, as Congressman Smith bottles it up in the Rules Committee.  By early June, the VRA had been in the Committee for 2 months, with no action being taken.  Finally, on June 12, the VRA is reported out, and is passed by the House on June 29, 320-115.  It is signed by President Kennedy on July 1.

The next piece of legislation on Kennedy’s agenda is the Economic Opportunity Act of 1965.  Written by Senator Hubert H. Humphrey (D-MN), the EOA would be implemented by the Office of Economic Opportunity, and include social programs to promote the health, education, and general welfare of the poor.  The EOA faces little opposition in either House, and is signed by Kennedy on August 6.

When Congress returned in September, it was presented with two pieces of legislation for education: the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, and the Higher Education Act of 1965.  The Elementary and Secondary Education Act would fund primary and secondary education for professional development, instructional materials, resources to support educational programs, and parental involvement promotion.  Written by Francis Keppel, the U.S. Commissioner of Education, the ESEA faced little opposition, and was signed by President Kennedy on December 9.

The Higher Education Act of 1965 also written by Keppel, would increase federal money given to universities, created scholarships, give low-interest loans for students, and establish a National Teachers Corps.  Like the ESEA, the HEA faced little opposition, and was signed by President Kennedy on January 7.

In his State of the Union Address in 1966, President Kennedy announces a massive troop escalation in Vietnam, in order to, “Put an end to the Communist threat to South Vietnam and ensure that the North Vietnamese adhere to the treaties which they have signed.”  Not mentioned by Kennedy, though, is any attempt to move into North Vietnam.  Acting on the advise of military officials, as well as Senator Richard B. Russell (D-GA), Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, Kennedy makes the decision that a ceasefire similar to the one in Korea was the best possible outcome.

Not everyone, however, approves of the decision.  Senator Henry M. Jackson (D-WA) calls it, “A sellout to the South Vietnamese, as well as all the American soldiers who have worked to prevent the spread of Communism.”  Senator John Tower (R-TX) chides the President for, “Doing what was politically expedient, instead of doing what was right.”  However, Kennedy defends his decision on national television, saying that it was the best conceivable result.

That statement is challenged by General William Westmoreland, the chief leader of troops in Vietnam.  In a speech on February 10, 1966, Westmoreland criticizes Kennedy’s leadership, and asks Congress to give him more troops.  Three days later, Kennedy fires Westmoreland, replacing him with Maxwell D. Taylor, a Kennedy ally.

The Westmoreland firing raises hell amongst Republicans and hawkish Democrats, with the Congress actually passing a resolution condemning Kennedy for the decision.  Kennedy stands by his choice, though, and the fighting in Vietnam continues under new leadership.

In early April, Kennedy submits to Congress two amendments to the Social Security Act, establishing Medicare and Medicaid.  Medicare would serve as government-funded health care for the elderly, while Medicaid would be government-funded health care for the poor.  Despite charges from some conservatives that Medicare and Medicaid amounted to socialism, the Congress passes both amendments easily, and the first cards are given to former President Harry Truman and his wife Bess at the Truman Library.

On June 4, Justice Hugo L. Black dies of a stroke at his home in Washington, DC.  To replace him, Kennedy follows through on a previous statement and appoints William H. Hastie to replace Black.  Hastie, the first African-American ever nominated to the Supreme Court, faces intense opposition from Southerners, including James Eastland (D-MS), Chairman of the Judiciary Committee.  After more than two months of grueling hearings, Hastie is finally confirmed by the Senate, 78-22, and becomes the first African-American Justice on the Supreme Court.

The Congressional Elections

As expected during the final election of a two term Presidency, the opposition makes gains in Congress, with the GOP picking up several Senate seats, and a fair chunk of House seats.

Senate Results

Democrats: 60 (-4)
Republicans: 40 (+4)

House Results
Democrats: 238 (-12)
Republicans: 197 (+12)

Green equals one GOP and one Democratic hold.
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Historico
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« Reply #30 on: January 04, 2009, 06:08:55 PM »

Interesting situation, you have arising here...I am assuming we don't see as much Anti-war and Civil Rights protests did in otl? Hmm, the Westmoreland firing does seem as if it's going to have some major ripples down the road...the general might take a swing in at the GOP nomination in TTL? If George Smathers does become the nominee, he may very well be able to win back some of the Southern States in a Carteresque faction, assuming Scoop's fighting Democrats manage to be kept in line. I like where TTL is going and Keep it comming.
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PBrunsel
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« Reply #31 on: January 04, 2009, 11:03:04 PM »

The firing of General Westmoreland is an interesting twist in this story. Will the general pull a MacArthur and run for president in 1968? 
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The Mikado
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« Reply #32 on: January 04, 2009, 11:11:45 PM »

Drop Johnson? No, certainly not. Johnson had ambition, too.

And a heart condition.
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Psychic Octopus
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« Reply #33 on: January 05, 2009, 12:39:12 AM »

Good scenario. What of Bobby Kennedy and Ted Kennedy? I'd like to see theirlives without JFK's assassination.
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« Reply #34 on: January 05, 2009, 06:26:49 PM »

As President Kennedy enters the final two years of his term, his approval ratings stand at an all time low, hovering in the mid 40’s.  This is mostly attributed to the situation in Vietnam.  Despite the massive troop increase, the North Vietnamese refused to allow for a ceasefire, despite failing to inflict any sort of damage to the American troops.

Many members of Congress begin calling for a decisive blow in the war.  Senator Henry M. Jackson (D-WA), says that, “We have an opportunity to win this war now.  With one fell swoop, we can end the threat of North Vietnam permanently.”  Senator John Tower (R-TX) says, “The President is putting his poll numbers ahead of national security.”  Despite the increased pressure, Kennedy does nothing to troop levels.

In a speech on January 29, 1967, President Kennedy boasts that wages were the highest in history, unemployment was at a 13-year low, and corporate profits and farm incomes were greater than ever.  Following the speech, he sends the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; written by his brother, Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), the ADEA would prohibit employment discrimination against persons 40 years of age or older.  It would also set standards for pensions and benefits provided by employers, and requires that information about the needs of older workers be provided to the general public.  This legislation, like many of Kennedy’s key programs, passes with little opposition, and is signed into law on May 1, 1967.

On June 5, President Kennedy is confronted with a foreign affairs crisis, when Israel launches a pre-emptive attack against the Egyptian air force. Jordan, which had signed a mutual defence treaty with Egypt on May 30, responds by attacking western Jerusalem and Netanya.  Despite calls from Senators such as Henry Jackson, Hubert Humphrey, John Tower, and other hawks, President Kennedy does not respond immediately, allowing Israel to take its own path.

On June 8, Israel captures the Sinai by sending infantry units to Ras-Sudar on the western coast of the peninsula. Sharm El-Sheikh, at its southern tip, had already been taken a day earlier by units of the Israeli Navy.  By June 10, following the capture of the Golan Heights, Israel signs a ceasefire.  During the fighting, Israel had seized the Gaza Strip, the Sinai Peninsula, the West Bank of the Jordan River (including East Jerusalem), and the Golan Heights.  During peace negotiations, Israel votes to return the Sinai to Egypt and the Golan Heights to Syria in return for peace agreements. The Golans would be demilitarized and special arrangement would be negotiated for the Straits of Tiran. The government also resolved to open negotiations with King Hussein of Jordan regarding the Eastern border.  Despite the favorable result, Kennedy is still criticized for his failure to send in troops to help Israel.

On June 29, Chief Justice Earl Warren and Justice Tom Clark both announce their retirement from the Supreme Court.  To replace him, President Kennedy nominates David L. Bazelon of the DC Court of Appeals.  Bazelon is confirmed without any controversy.  Clark is replaced by his fellow Texan John Robert Brown.

On 14 July, 1967, the voters in the United Kingdom give a major boost to incumbent Prime Minister Harold Wilson and his Labour Party, giving Labour a gain of 54 seats, giving him a majority of 102 seats.

In September, though, Kennedy asks Congress to pass the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1968.  The INA would abolish the national-origin quotas that had been in place in the United States since the Immigration Act of 1924.  Strongly supported by liberal Democrats and Republicans, it passes the House on October 17, by a vote of 280-129; on December 12 it passes the Senate, 68-32, and is signed by President Kennedy.

In early February, Kennedy asks Congress to pass legislation increasing funding for NASA, saying that it was possible to reach the moon by the end of 1968.  Congress, however, refuses to pass the spending bill, instead making cuts to the NASA budget, overriding Kennedy’s veto on April 25.

On April 4, 1968, in Tennessee, the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. is assassinated by James Earl Ray.  Following King’s death, Kennedy gives a speech on national television, mourning that slain leader, and ending any possible threat of riots throughout the country.  King’s funeral is Alabama is attended by the President, Vice President, every member of the Cabinet, House and Senate Leaders, and several Presidential candidates, preparing for the campaign.
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« Reply #35 on: January 05, 2009, 06:44:18 PM »

Drop Johnson? No, certainly not. Johnson had ambition, too.

And a heart condition.

The heart condition wouldn't get in his way, methinks. He had to be President.
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« Reply #36 on: January 05, 2009, 08:32:45 PM »

The Democratic Nomination

With it being taken for granted that Vice President Smathers would seek reelection, the major question was who, if anyone, would run against him.  Early attention centered around Senator Henry M. Jackson, of Washington.  A prominent hawk who enjoyed support in every major Democratic constituency, Jackson was considered a premier choice to run for President.  On January 17, Jackson announces that he will indeed seek the nomination.  On February 2, Senator William Proxmire of Wisconsin announces that he will seek the nomination, with support from the small, dovish wing of his party.

On March 12, the first primary of the year is held in New Hampshire.  As expected, Vice President Smathers wins an easy victory, garnering 61% of the vote.  Senator Proxmire finishes second, with 23%, and Senator Jackson gets 16%.  On April 2, in Wisconsin, Senator Proxmire wins 67% in his home state, with 23% going to Smathers, and 10% going to Jackson.  Three weeks later, Smathers wins 70% in Pennsylvania, Jackson wins 21%, and Proxmire wins 9%.  On April 30, Smathers wins 72% in Massachusetts, with Jackson getting 23%, and 5% going to Proxmire.  Smathers continues his winning streak on May 7, taking Washington DC, Indiana, and Ohio by large margins.  Jackson drops out following those primaries, and endorses Smathers.  On May 14, Smathers wins Nebraska and West Virginia; he wins Florida and Oregon on May 28; on June 4 he wins California, New Jersey and South Dakota, and ends the primary season with a win in Illinois.

Entering the Convention, Smathers already holds a majority of delegates.  However, Proxmire insists on a roll call vote, which ends with him only winning in Wisconsin.  Smathers selects Senator Jackson as his running mate, much to the anger of the dovish wing of the party.  Smathers and Jackson both give rousing speeches, and march on to the November election.

The Republican Nomination

Following Goldwater’s defeat in 1964, the GOP looked to the moderate wing of the Party, and the first candidate to declare is moderate Nelson Rockefeller, who failed to gain the nomination in 1964.  Shortly after Rockefeller’s announcement, Senator John Tower of Texas, a conservative, announces his bid for the nomination.  An attempt to draft Richard Nixon fails, and on February 23, Nixon endorses Tower for the nomination.

Rockefeller, as expected, wins the New Hampshire primary by a large margin; Tower responds by winning Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, before Rockefeller takes Massachusetts and DC.  Tower responds by winning Indiana, Ohio, Nebraska, West Virginia, Florida, Oregon, and California, ending with a Rockefeller victory in New Jersey; Tower ends the primaries with a win in Illinois.

The RNC opens in Miami without a clear nominee.  The first ballot shows a slight lead for Tower, with Rockefeller in second.
Senator John Tower (TX): 623 votes
Governor Nelson Rockefeller (NY): 600 votes
Governor George Romney (MI): 74 votes
Former Vice President Richard Nixon (CA): 35 votes
 Senator Hiram Fong (HI): 1 vote

Shortly before the second vote, Tower makes Rockefeller an offer: if Rockefeller withdraws, then Tower will let him name the Vice President.  Rockefeller accepts, Tower wins the nomination, and Rockefeller supporter Governor Spiro Agnew of Maryland is named the VP nominee.

The General Election

As the campaign gets underway, the race is dead even between Smathers and Tower.  The race changes, though, on September 5, when General William Westmoreland, angry at both candidates for their perceived dovish views on Vietnam, announces his candidacy for President, as the nominee of the American Independent Party, running with Governor Lester Maddox of Georgia as his Vice President.

Westmoreland’s entry into the race radically alters the dynamics of the campaign.  Running to the right of Tower, Westmoreland appears to have thrown the election to Smathers.  During the debates, Westmoreland pounds both candidates on national defense, and jumps in the polls, garnering nearly 25% in early October.  However, Westmoreland is hit hard by the media on his running mate’s segregationist past.  Westmoreland, however, states that his running mate should not effect voter’s views on him, which gets him hit even harder by the media.

On election day, Tower pulls out an extremely narrow victory, with Westmoreland taking a significant chunk of the vote, despite not winning any states.


John Tower/Spiro Agnew: 41.7% PV, 317 EV
George Smathers/Henry Jackson: 41.1% PV, 221 EV
William Westmoreland/Lester Maddox: 16.1% PV, 0 EV
Others: 1.1% PV, 0 EV

The Congressional Elections

Despite the close Presidential race, the Republicans make major gains in the Senate; in the House, however, their gains are much smaller.
Senate Results

Democrats: 53 (-7)
Republicans: 47 (+7)

House Results
Democrats: 232 (-6)
Republicans: 203 (+6)
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Historico
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« Reply #37 on: January 05, 2009, 11:11:50 PM »

Great last two installment...I would think Westmoreland's third party run would split the conservative vote esp in the South with Tower, enough so to possibly shift the election to the house? I guess not, It is interesting to see what position the Democrats will take in OTL esp if Support the war Tower in OTL does a Johnsonesque escalation of the war. Perhaps this will allow former Attorney General Bobby Kennedy(Does he still go for the New York Senate seat?) or Mass Senator Teddy Kennedy to run an "We told you so" campaign in '72 or '76 as leader of the growing peace wing? Also picking Agnew is a powder keg waiting to happen, so itll be interesting to see who he nominates if Agnew resigns. Btw what is Tower's stance going to be on the Negative Income Tax and can he bring up enough clout in Congress to get it passed?
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Historico
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« Reply #38 on: January 10, 2009, 02:57:33 PM »

Great last two installment...I would think Westmoreland's third party run would split the conservative vote esp in the South with Tower, enough so to possibly shift the election to the house? I guess not, It is interesting to see what position the Democrats will take in OTL esp if Support the war Tower in OTL does a Johnsonesque escalation of the war. Perhaps this will allow former Attorney General Bobby Kennedy(Does he still go for the New York Senate seat?) or Mass Senator Teddy Kennedy to run an "We told you so" campaign in '72 or '76 as leader of the growing peace wing? Also picking Agnew is a powder keg waiting to happen, so itll be interesting to see who he nominates if Agnew resigns. Btw what is Tower's stance going to be on the Negative Income Tax and can he bring up enough clout in Congress to get it passed?

Any answers for some of the questions I posted a few day's ago? and how's the next installment coming along? lol
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« Reply #39 on: January 10, 2009, 03:30:45 PM »

Great last two installment...I would think Westmoreland's third party run would split the conservative vote esp in the South with Tower, enough so to possibly shift the election to the house? I guess not, It is interesting to see what position the Democrats will take in OTL esp if Support the war Tower in OTL does a Johnsonesque escalation of the war. Perhaps this will allow former Attorney General Bobby Kennedy(Does he still go for the New York Senate seat?) or Mass Senator Teddy Kennedy to run an "We told you so" campaign in '72 or '76 as leader of the growing peace wing? Also picking Agnew is a powder keg waiting to happen, so itll be interesting to see who he nominates if Agnew resigns. Btw what is Tower's stance going to be on the Negative Income Tax and can he bring up enough clout in Congress to get it passed?

Any answers for some of the questions I posted a few day's ago? and how's the next installment coming along? lol

My apologies Smiley  An update will appear in the next several minutes.
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« Reply #40 on: January 10, 2009, 03:38:17 PM »


The First Term of John Tower

In his Inaugural Address, continuing on the themes of his campaign, Tower promises for a strong military, including victory in Vietnam.  Tower promises for a bipartisan administration, and his Cabinet reflects that.

Secretary of State: William P. Rogers (R-NY)
Secretary of Treasury: George P. Shultz (R-NY)
Secretary of Defense: Olin E. Teague (D-TX)
Attorney General: Richard Kleindienst (R-AZ)
Postmaster General: Winton M. Blount (R-AL)
Secretary of the Interior: Don Samuelson (R-ID)
Secretary of Agriculture: Robert Docking (D-KS)
Secretary of Commerce: Elliot Richardson (R-MA)
Secretary of Labor: James D. Hodgson (R-MN)
Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare: Caspar Weinberger (R-CA)
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Frank E. Curran (D-CA)
Secretary of Transportation: John A. Volpe (R-MA)

Upon taking office, one of Tower’s first actions is to call for a massive troop increase in Vietnam.  He also asks Congress to pass a military pay raise, in an attempt to draw more people into the military.  He does, however, reject a suggestion from hawks such as the recently reelected Barry Goldwater (R-AZ) for a draft, saying it would only have a negative impact on the morale of soldiers.

In deciding to focus on the military, Tower decides to cut spending on numerous domestic programs, including NASA.  The decision, however, raises hell amongst Congressional liberals.  Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), says, “The President is trying to gut all of the programs that have been so beneficial to the American people, simply so he can pay for a foreign war.”  Senator Henry M. Jackson says, “We do not have to sacrifice butter for guns.  The President’s budget has been starved to death, and it does not need to be so.”  On February 12, Congress passes a budget that includes only minor cuts in social spending, and barely any increase in military spending.  The next day, President Tower vetoes the bill, and announces that he will veto any spending bill that lacks major increases in military spending, and major cuts in social spending.

Four days later, though, the Congress votes overwhelmingly to override the President’s veto.  In a statement, the President blames Congress for endangering the American military presence in Vietnam.

On May 12, 1969, Congress passes the Environmental Protection Act of 1969.  Written by Senator Hubert H. Humphrey (D-MN), the EPA would establish an Environmental Protection Agency, giving the Agency a large amount of control over the country’s environmental programs.  Despite facing strong opposition from conservatives in Congress, the EPA passes on June 27 in the House, 300-135, and passes the Senate on July 18, 57-43.  Following his stinging spending defeat, Tower signs the legislation on July 19.

In early September, Congress begins debate on the Civil Rights Act of 1969.  Written primarily by Senator Hubert Humphrey (D-MN), the Act would prohibit discrimination concerning the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, and national origin.  For the first time since the Voting Rights Act, the South filibusters.  Not all Southerners join in, though.  Senator Al Gore of Tennessee announces he will vote for cloture, as does Ralph Yarborough of Texas and both Senators from Florida, Spessard Holland and LeRoy Collins.

On October 23, by a vote of 79-17, the Senate approved cloture on the bill.  On October 30, they pass the Civil Rights Act of 1969, 73-27.  Upon reaching the House, the Act is bottled up in the Rules Committee by Chairman William Colmer (D-MS), a strong opponent of civil rights legislation.  For nearly a month, pro-civil rights Congressman try to get the Act discharged from Committee, without success.

On December 10, though, Colmer inexplicably releases the Act from Committee, sending it to the full House.  On December 19, by a vote of 280-155, the House passes the Civil Rights Act of 1968, and sends it to the President.  After several days of internal wrangling, the President signs the Act on December 22.

In his State of the Union Address on January 22, 1970, Tower calls for yet another increase in military spending.  He also comes out strongly in opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment, despite strong support amongst the voters.

By early February, the situation in Vietnam seems to have deteriorated since Tower took over.  On February 16, General Taylor resigns, and is replaced by General Westmoreland, after serving for a little over a year as Tower’s National Security Advisor.  Westmoreland, speaking to Congress in early March, says that he needs at least 50,000 more troops in order to win the war fully.

Following Westmoreland’s statement, though, criticism of the war effort begins to increase.  Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) says, “We have been in Vietnam for over a decade.  The time has come to pull out, and allow the Vietnamese to handle their own affairs.”  Even hawks such as Henry M. Jackson (D-WA) begin to move towards peace, with Jackson declaring, “There’s no point in spending an extra 5 years to overcome North Vietnam, when we can have a peaceful coexistence.”

Despite the calls, Tower refuses to cut back on troop levels, and begins suggesting that America may remain in Vietnam well into the 1970’s.

On June 3, Justice John Marshal Harlan dies of a heart attack.  To replace him, Tower nominates Clement Haynsworth of the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals.  However, the Haynsworth nomination runs into opposition from liberals, as well as unions and the NAACP.  On June 20, the Senate rejects Haynsworth’s nomination, 53-46, the first nominee to be rejected in 40 years.  On June 28, Tower nominates Bailey Aldrich of the 1st Circuit; on July 15, Aldrich is confirmed 97-2.

On August 3, Tower leaves for a tour of Europe.  He meets with every major European leader, including newly elected British Prime Minister Edward Heath, just several weeks after his Conservative Party regained the majority in Parliament.  Throughout Europe, Tower is criticized for his position of Vietnam.  Pope Paul VI spends nearly an hour lecturing Tower on the sanctity of life, as protesters rant outside of the Palace.  When Tower returns to the US on August 25, his approval rating stands at an all time low of 42%.

The Congressional Elections

With Tower’s approval ratings sinking very low, the Democrats make major gains in both Houses of Congress, giving them an impressive majority to confront Tower with.

Senate Results

Democrats: 59 (+6)
Republicans: 41 (-7)

House Results
Democrats: 260 (+28)
Republicans: 175 (-28)
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Historico
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« Reply #41 on: January 10, 2009, 06:26:03 PM »

Hmm...It seems someone had to suffer the fate of LBJ ITTL, I just hoped it wouldn't be another Texan lol An interesting twist since we don't have a JFK assasination, would be for Arthur Bremer to actually succeed in killing the president or even causing him paryalsis in a manner like George Wallace. That might boost the GOP's chances of winning the '72 election, if not I can see Ted Kennedy(Assuming there was no Chappaquidick ITTL),George Mcgovern Eugene McCarthy, or even Shirley Chisholm taking over as the Dove wing of the Democrats gain control of the Party. It will be interesting to see where you take this...
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« Reply #42 on: January 10, 2009, 08:39:23 PM »

Hmm...It seems someone had to suffer the fate of LBJ ITTL, I just hoped it wouldn't be another Texan lol An interesting twist since we don't have a JFK assasination, would be for Arthur Bremer to actually succeed in killing the president or even causing him paryalsis in a manner like George Wallace. That might boost the GOP's chances of winning the '72 election, if not I can see Ted Kennedy(Assuming there was no Chappaquidick ITTL),George Mcgovern Eugene McCarthy, or even Shirley Chisholm taking over as the Dove wing of the Democrats gain control of the Party. It will be interesting to see where you take this...

In this timeline, actually, the dovish wing of the party is much weaker, since Vietnam did not prove such a divisive issue for the Democrats.  In January, 1971, the leading candidates for the Democratic nomination, all Senators, are (in no particular order):

Senator Hubert H. Humphrey (Minnesota)
Senator Edward M. Kennedy (Massachusetts)
Senator George McGovern (South Dakota)
Senator Henry M. Jackson (Washington)
Senator LeRoy Collins (Florida)
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« Reply #43 on: January 11, 2009, 01:48:29 AM »

Ah I see, at least there is a pool of candidates for the Democrats...I wonder if any of the Moderate Republicans will run against Tower in an insurgency campaign.?Hmm decisions,decisions lol
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« Reply #44 on: January 11, 2009, 03:46:24 AM »


The First Term of John Tower

In his Inaugural Address, continuing on the themes of his campaign, Tower promises for a strong military, including victory in Vietnam.  Tower promises for a bipartisan administration, and his Cabinet reflects that.

Secretary of State: William P. Rogers (R-NY)
Secretary of Treasury: George P. Shultz (R-NY)
Secretary of Defense: Olin E. Teague (D-TX)
Attorney General: Richard Kleindienst (R-AZ)
Postmaster General: Winton M. Blount (R-AL)
Secretary of the Interior: Don Samuelson (R-ID)
Secretary of Agriculture: Robert Docking (D-KS)
Secretary of Commerce: Elliot Richardson (R-MA)
Secretary of Labor: James D. Hodgson (R-MN)
Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare: Caspar Weinberger (R-CA)
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Frank E. Curran (D-CA)
Secretary of Transportation: John A. Volpe (R-MA)

Upon taking office, one of Tower’s first actions is to call for a massive troop increase in Vietnam.  He also asks Congress to pass a military pay raise, in an attempt to draw more people into the military.  He does, however, reject a suggestion from hawks such as the recently reelected Barry Goldwater (R-AZ) for a draft, saying it would only have a negative impact on the morale of soldiers.

In deciding to focus on the military, Tower decides to cut spending on numerous domestic programs, including NASA.  The decision, however, raises hell amongst Congressional liberals.  Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), says, “The President is trying to gut all of the programs that have been so beneficial to the American people, simply so he can pay for a foreign war.”  Senator Henry M. Jackson says, “We do not have to sacrifice butter for guns.  The President’s budget has been starved to death, and it does not need to be so.”  On February 12, Congress passes a budget that includes only minor cuts in social spending, and barely any increase in military spending.  The next day, President Tower vetoes the bill, and announces that he will veto any spending bill that lacks major increases in military spending, and major cuts in social spending.

Four days later, though, the Congress votes overwhelmingly to override the President’s veto.  In a statement, the President blames Congress for endangering the American military presence in Vietnam.

On May 12, 1969, Congress passes the Environmental Protection Act of 1969.  Written by Senator Hubert H. Humphrey (D-MN), the EPA would establish an Environmental Protection Agency, giving the Agency a large amount of control over the country’s environmental programs.  Despite facing strong opposition from conservatives in Congress, the EPA passes on June 27 in the House, 300-135, and passes the Senate on July 18, 57-43.  Following his stinging spending defeat, Tower signs the legislation on July 19.

In early September, Congress begins debate on the Civil Rights Act of 1969.  Written primarily by Senator Hubert Humphrey (D-MN), the Act would prohibit discrimination concerning the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, and national origin.  For the first time since the Voting Rights Act, the South filibusters.  Not all Southerners join in, though.  Senator Al Gore of Tennessee announces he will vote for cloture, as does Ralph Yarborough of Texas and both Senators from Florida, Spessard Holland and LeRoy Collins.

On October 23, by a vote of 79-17, the Senate approved cloture on the bill.  On October 30, they pass the Civil Rights Act of 1969, 73-27.  Upon reaching the House, the Act is bottled up in the Rules Committee by Chairman William Colmer (D-MS), a strong opponent of civil rights legislation.  For nearly a month, pro-civil rights Congressman try to get the Act discharged from Committee, without success.

On December 10, though, Colmer inexplicably releases the Act from Committee, sending it to the full House.  On December 19, by a vote of 280-155, the House passes the Civil Rights Act of 1968, and sends it to the President.  After several days of internal wrangling, the President signs the Act on December 22.

In his State of the Union Address on January 22, 1970, Tower calls for yet another increase in military spending.  He also comes out strongly in opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment, despite strong support amongst the voters.

By early February, the situation in Vietnam seems to have deteriorated since Tower took over.  On February 16, General Taylor resigns, and is replaced by General Westmoreland, after serving for a little over a year as Tower’s National Security Advisor.  Westmoreland, speaking to Congress in early March, says that he needs at least 50,000 more troops in order to win the war fully.

Following Westmoreland’s statement, though, criticism of the war effort begins to increase.  Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) says, “We have been in Vietnam for over a decade.  The time has come to pull out, and allow the Vietnamese to handle their own affairs.”  Even hawks such as Henry M. Jackson (D-WA) begin to move towards peace, with Jackson declaring, “There’s no point in spending an extra 5 years to overcome North Vietnam, when we can have a peaceful coexistence.”

Despite the calls, Tower refuses to cut back on troop levels, and begins suggesting that America may remain in Vietnam well into the 1970’s.

On June 3, Justice John Marshal Harlan dies of a heart attack.  To replace him, Tower nominates Clement Haynsworth of the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals.  However, the Haynsworth nomination runs into opposition from liberals, as well as unions and the NAACP.  On June 20, the Senate rejects Haynsworth’s nomination, 53-46, the first nominee to be rejected in 40 years.  On June 28, Tower nominates Bailey Aldrich of the 1st Circuit; on July 15, Aldrich is confirmed 97-2.

On August 3, Tower leaves for a tour of Europe.  He meets with every major European leader, including newly elected British Prime Minister Edward Heath, just several weeks after his Conservative Party regained the majority in Parliament.  Throughout Europe, Tower is criticized for his position of Vietnam.  Pope Paul VI spends nearly an hour lecturing Tower on the sanctity of life, as protesters rant outside of the Palace.  When Tower returns to the US on August 25, his approval rating stands at an all time low of 42%.

The Congressional Elections

With Tower’s approval ratings sinking very low, the Democrats make major gains in both Houses of Congress, giving them an impressive majority to confront Tower with.

Senate Results

Democrats: 59 (+6)
Republicans: 41 (-7)

House Results
Democrats: 260 (+28)
Republicans: 175 (-28)

I dont think Democrats could have gained Senate seats in 1970 even if it was a really good year for them.  They were still overinflated by their 1958 gains, which they held in 1964. 
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Historico
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« Reply #45 on: January 13, 2009, 08:11:28 PM »

So when can we expect the next installment?
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Psychic Octopus
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« Reply #46 on: January 13, 2009, 08:28:18 PM »

They weren't so much overinflated over 1964, although I would not have thought that they could have picked up 6 seats if this were real. Maybe very close races went for the Dems. Remember, Vietnam is not so much a polarizing issue in this TL, and united Democrats could have won some more in 1970, due to Pesident Tower's low approval.
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Psychic Octopus
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« Reply #47 on: January 13, 2009, 08:35:48 PM »

Jackson-Humphrey or (vice-versa) in '72!!!
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Kaine for Senate '18
benconstine
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« Reply #48 on: January 14, 2009, 02:02:50 PM »

So when can we expect the next installment?

In the next day or two.
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Robespierre's Jaw
Senator Conor Flynn
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« Reply #49 on: January 14, 2009, 04:42:45 PM »

Jackson-Humphrey or (vice-versa) in '72!!!

Why would Senator Jackson accept the position as Senator Humphrey's running mate when he was already selected as Vice President Smathers' in 1968? If anything I'm expecting one of the many "New South" Governors, such as Reubin Askew or Jimmy Carter, to be selected by Humphrey, if of course, Humphrey does win the Democratic Nomination in 1972. However, I could be completely wrong.

As for the timeline, Benjamin, continue the good work. Hopefully this timeline does not fall off the wagon like your previous timeline, TR elected in 1912. If you long for your timeline to not meet similar fate I would happily suggest an excellent remedy. Foreign events, such as elections, wars, etc and a lot of them. However, make sure you find the right balance between both domestic and foreign events.
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