The Second Term of Gerald Ford

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Please. Think about the party. If I win this election, I'll do my best to adopt some of your policies..

That's not quite going to cut it, Gerald. I can't stand by and watch our party go further left; your selection of a vice-president has done just that.

If that's the case, I'll replace him on the ticket. I'll even campaign for you so you can make a senatorial bid and remain viable.

Very well... I'll step aside, for the sake of our party.



Reagan endorsing Ford at the 1976 Republican National Convention.

In his acceptance speech, Ford repudiates Richard Nixon and promises that his Attorney General will prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law.

He also announces the selection of Kansas Senator Bob Dole as his runningmate.

President Gerald Ford/Senator Bob Dole(R), 284 EV, 52% PV
Governor James E. Carter/Senator Walter Mondale(D), 254 EV, 47.5% PV

Ford promises to continue the policy of detente and ultimately his hardline against the former president improves his numbers. Jimmy Carter's image as a Washington outsider is not enough to win. It is a close election, but in the end Ford prevails.

More to come soon. (Feedback would be appreciated)

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

There would only be a few changes to the Ford Cabinet. For one, he would be replacing his Attorney General, Edward Levi, with an infamous face..



Leon Jaworski, the prosecutor in the Watergate Scandal. Leon was known to have supported Republicans in the past, and Ford felt comfortable with him in the administration.

He would also be appointing his former Vice President, Nelson Rockefeller, as ambassador to the United Nations, replacing William Scranton.

Even before the election, Secretary of State Henry Kissinger had privately told Ford he would be resigning after the election. Ford had tapped Senate Minority Leader Howard Baker. However, Baker was uninterested in the position, in hopes that he could work hard as Minority Leader and eventually gain a majority in the Senate. So, instead, he appointed defeated Senator James L. Buckley of New York, as a means to appease the conservative wing of the party.

1976 Senate Elections

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

i decided to heed your advice, GZ, and made some modifications. Kal, in this TL Ford does not pardon Nixon. ill have an update either tonight or tomorrow.

i'll admit i'm a bit of a novice, so advice is greatly appreciated on where you guys have think i've erred.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

sorry about all that guys. it's been an intense week. But here's my update, thus far, please let me know what revisions you'd think would be proper.

The economy began to falter not too long after Ford's election in his own right. Gas prices, inflation, and unemployment were all high. The 1978 midterm elections weren't kind to the Republican party; several Republican senators, such as Edward Brooke, went down. In addition, the Democrats increased their margin in the house by 10 seats.

Darker shades indicate a hold, lighter shades are a pickup. Green's a tie.

On February 1979, the Shah of Iran was overthrown by  Ruhollah Khomeini, also known as Ayatollah Khomeini.


The Shah of Iran, now overthrown.

"It is important that the United States protect leaders whom share our interests." said Gerald Ford, as he announced he was granting the Shah entrance to the United States.

Shortly after, on November 4th, 1979, fifty-three Americans were captured and held hostage at the US embassy in Iran.

Ford's approval numbers plummeted to 23%, having been 41% in 1978. Bob Dole announced his candidacy for President on November 4th, 1979, and did not plan on having a primary challenger.

On November 15th, 1979, Henry "Scoop" Jackson declared his candidacy for Presidency of The United States.


Some speculated that former nominee Jimmy Carter would make a run, but he announced days later that he would not submit another bid. A poll was taken among democrats nationwide, with Jackson leading.

Henry M. Jackson: 53%

Walter Mondale: 24%

Undecided: 23%

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

it's a what if. =P

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

In late December of 1979, the Watergate case began to look murky at best. Aside from the 'Smoking Gun' tape, there was not much evidence that Nixon knew the break-in was for political purposes. President Gerald Ford seemed distraught about the whole thing, and prepared to speak on the television directly to the American people.

"My fellow Americans.. I wish to speak to you, not as a President, but simply as a fellow man. There are times where we are irrational, jump to conclusions, and, most importantly, make mistakes. I know that in the past I spoke harshly of the former president, and more importantly, my close friend. However, with the case looking more and more difficult, with no clear evidence, I myself am not so sure anymore that he is guilty. I must uphold the rule of law - that law being the prosumption of innocence until proven guilty. I have made a grave error in speaking out so strongly before the facts were known. It is time for this nation to move on - and I am announcing that I will be signing a pardon for any crimes President Nixon may have committed. I was wrong to have spoken out so strongly, and I hope you can all forgive my error."

The pardon proved to be a very controversial issue, seeing Ford's poll numbers drop to 18%.

On January 1st, 1980, Jimmy Carter announced he would seek his parties nomination once more.



Days later, Ted Kennedy delivered the first endorsement, for his old friend Scoop Jackson. Walter Mondale in turn endorsed his former running mate.

The primary was hard fought, with Carter narrowly winning in Iowa: (Carter 38%, Jackson 36%, 26% uncommitted) Jackson made a strong comeback in New Hampshire due to Kennedy campaigning (netting 52% of the vote) and proceeded to sweep the nomination, after a slight drawback in South Carolina (Carter winning with 56%). Many speculated that Scoop Jackson would choose Ted Kennedy. However, due to concerns about Chappaquidick, he announced at Madison Square Garden that he would select the young senator Llyod Bentsen as his running mate.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

well, i think that was more because you didn't come off (or weren't being, i'm not going to judge that) as being open minded to their recommendations. you can do things the way you want, but if you want your readers to be open minded you probably should do the same. know what i mean?

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

At the Republican National Convention in Detroit, Michigan, Vice President Bob Dole received 98% of the delegates, the others scattering to various minor candidates. He subsequently announced his selection of a runningmate, much to the chagrin of some conservatives. His pick was Pennsylvania Senator Richard Schweiker.



The fall campaign was particularly brutal, covering issues from the economy, to the Iran hostage crisis, to the Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan. In the debates, Scoop Jackson blasted the Vice President over Ford's handling of the hostage crisis, whom seemed unclear as to how he'd rescue the hostages. Scoop also lambasted President Ford for support of SALT, and the negotiations of SALT II, and promised massive domestic spending to stimulate the economy.

The following's closing statements:

Dole: I assure you that I will be every bit as tough on Communism as my former colleague. However, I can also assure you I will be much more level-headed in my approach; my former colleague will bring the world to war. We Republicans have been in charge for 12 years; the world remains safe, and the economy has hit a mild slump. However, I will balance the budget and return us to our long-held prosperity.

Jackson: To borrow a line from the President, Vice President Dole wants to speak loudly and carry a fly swatter. I will stimulate the economy and bring an end to the Soviet Union, mark my words. I will say nothing more. Don't ask me, ask yourself: "Am I better off now than I was twelve years ago?"

Senator Henry M. Jackson(D-WA)/Senator Llyod Bentsen(D-TX), 56% PV
Vice President Bob Dole(R-KS)/Senator Richard Schweiker(R-PA), 44% PV
With out the presence of a Southerner on the ticket, the South was rather dicey. Dole only held the West and Jackson carried traditional "New Deal Democrat" strongholds such as AR and WV by huge margins, winning over blue collar voters that would later be known as "Jackson Democrats."

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

where'd you get the IMG code for that one? i saw it on wiki.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Update coming soon, I promise

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

The First Term of Henry M. Jackson

Upon assuming office, Scoop Jackson promised a tougher stance with the Soviet Union, and warned Iran that the hostages should be released, or they would face "disproportionate backlash" from the United States. He also put a sign on his White House desk that read "The Buck Stops Here", reminiscent of Harry Truman. Scoop Jackson also announced that he would like Congress to begin working with him on "A Second Deal."

Vice President: Llyod M. Bentsen
Secretary of State: James L. Buckley
Secretary of Defense: William "Flynt" Nichols
Secretary of Treasury: Mike McCormack
Attorney General: Benjamin Civiletti
Chief of Staff: Dixy Lee Ray
EPA Director: Llyod Meeds
Secretary of Commerce: Paul Wolfowitz

Senate Composition:
Democrats: 74
Republicans: 36

Ironically, due to their overwhelming majority in the house, the Democrats lost five house seats.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Henry M. Jackson introduced an ambitious plan before Congress. He proposed an increase in unemployment benefits and a massive military build-up, also with lots of spending on infrastructure. However, the budget also called for an increase in taxes, 10% for the rich and 5% for the middle-class. It received mixed reviews in the media and criticism from Republicans. In a speech, President Jackson countered "Listen to these guys, and we'll stay where we've been for the past 12 years. I know taxes are raised a bit, but think of it as an investment in America, and an investment in your self." After some struggle and negotiating, the bill passed.

He also urged Congress to pass a bill calling for the creation of a Department of Energy, in response to the ongoing oil crisis.

The hostage crisis continued tumultuously, several prisoners dying from health complications. On February 5th, 1981, the hostages were executed. President Jackson called for swift action, and the House voted 340-10 to declare war on Iran.

On February 8th, 1981, the bombs started dropping.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

I pushed the bombing back a year so I can include the midterm results in the next post.

Yuck. I don't want that Bastard in the White House. Baker in 84'!!

you still like the TL though, right? and don't worry, baker might have his time.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

i'm going to change how i did the 76 elections to a map instead of listings, update either LATE tonight or friday, don't expect one thursday though.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Within days, after some backroom dealings with Saddam Hussein, the United States announced that it would be landing 100,000 troops in Iraq over the next year, by both boat and plane. In response, the Soviet Union ceased its early operations in Afghanistan and stationed troops near the border of Iran.



March 2nd, 1981, open combat begins between US and Iranian troops in Western Iran. The UN is upset that President Jackson did not go through them first, but member-states are largely split between whom they support. Israel, UK, and West Germany support the US, with other states like France and Spain remaining neutral.

The Republicans picked up a whopping six senate seats in the midterm elections, making the total 42 Republicans and 58 Democrats. They also managed to pick up thirty house seats, almost all of them pro-war Republicans.

When asked whether or not he would be running for the Presidency in 84, Senate Minority Leader Howard Baker replied "I can not run for President during such tumultous times, as my current duty is to serve the state of Tennessee, and my country, in a time of war. Running for President would merely divide the country at this point when we need to be united." When asked about future plans after 84, he declined to comment.

However, there were others whom seem interested in the Presidency. Among them:

Governor Pete DuPont of Delaware

Senator John Connally of Texas

Senator Paul Laxalt of Nevada

Governor George Deukmejian of California

None of these men had yet declared.

President Jackson's Approval Rating: 63%

Approval of the War in Iran: 81%

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

All right, I'll change it to 100,000.. not the biggest expert on military stats, and I wanted to provide a lot of troops for years to come. Gerald Ford did not appoint Volcker, and Scoop will die, though at a different date.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

With the economy only getting mildly better, some of the more ambitious Republicans felt like they had a chance. On November 8th, 1983, Senator John Connally of Texas declared his candidacy for President of the United States.



On November 15th, 1983, another Republican threw his hat into the ring.



Governor Pete DuPont of Delaware.

Both of the men had a platform of rolling back Jackson's tax increases and massive spending bill, but also to support the war effort in Iran.

"If I don't see a Republican who shares my values," said Senator Mark O. Hatfield, "then this old war horse just might have to get in the race."

On the other side, it was no surprise that President Jackson would be seeking his parties' nomination. One surprise, however, was an insurgent challenge from the dovish wing of the party.



Former Senator George McGovern, announcing on December 2nd, 1983, that he would be seeking the Democratic nomination for the Presidency.

Uncertainty began to stir in the public, just two years after the war started. Approval for the war hovered around 61%, with President Jackson's own approval at 53%.

Iowa Poll

Connally: 39%

DuPont: 25%

Laxalt: 8%

Deukmejian: 3%

Iowa Poll

Jackson: 83%

McGovern:8%

Following the release of these polls, Deukmejian announced he would not be seeking the Presidency.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

On February 20th, 1984, the Iowa Caucuses were held.

Republicans

John Connally: 54%

Pete DuPont: 44%

Others: 2%

Democrats

Scoop Jackson:81%

George McGovern:15%

Debates were held three days before the New Hampshire primary. During the debates, Pete DuPont cited being a businessman and Governor as credentials to be President. Connally bashed Pete DuPont, saying "there are cities in Texas with more people than Delaware. I governed one of the largest states in the nation." Also, he pointed out the DuPont company's bad record on the environment, to which Pete DuPont responded "Are you sure you're not still a Democrat, Senator?"

February 28th proved to be a good day for Pete DuPont. He narrowly edged out a victory over Connally.

Republicans

Pete DuPont: 48%

John Connally: 44%

Democrats

Scoop Jackson: 73%

George McGovern: 24%

When questioned about George McGovern's primary challenge, President Jackson quipped "This isn't the 70's anymore. He would be even less palatable to the electorate than he was in 72."

McGovern, in a press conference, angrily responded "If this isn't the 70's, then why is the economy still a wreck? Why do we have another Vietnam?"

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Great TL. It truly appears that you put a lot of time and effort into this. Keep up the good work.

The only error that I found is this:

The Republicans picked up a whopping six senate seats in the midterm elections, making the total 42 Republicans and 68 Democrats. They also managed to pick up thirty house seats, almost all of them pro-war Republicans.

The Senate has 100 seats total, so I'm assuming you mean there are 42 Republicans and 58 Democrats.

Haha, sorry about that. typing error. I'll have a primary update today or tomorrow.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

On March 1st, Senator Mark Hatfield officially declared his candidacy for President of The United States.

He didn't have time to achieve ballot status in Maine, but swiftly headed there and began a write-in campaign.

Maine Caucuses

Republicans

Pete DuPont: 53%

John Connally: 28%

Mark Hatfield(write-in): 17%

Democrats

Scoop Jackson:58%

George McGovern:39%

On March 6th, recently promoted General Colin Powell testified before Congress for an additional 40,000 troops, alleging Soviet involvement in the US-Iran war.

Wyoming Caucuses

Republicans

John Connally: 61%

Pete DuPont: 28%

Mark Hatfield: 11%

Democrats

Scoop Jackson: 81%

George McGovern: 17%

The candidates headed off into March 13, for a whole 9 primaries & caucuses. (I will not be doing state by state results for these, as it will be too many.)

Blue - Connally
Red - DuPont
Green - Hatfield

On the Democratic side, Jackson won all but Massachusetts. Hawaii was close, but in the end, his long championing for Hawaii statehood came in his favor, pulling off a narrow victory.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Woohoo! fixed the image links. comments, anyone?

Working on more of the primary this afternoon.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Upon the retirement of Potter Stewart, Scoop Jackson announced he would be appointing his longtime Senate colleague, Warren Magnuson (or "Maggie") to the Supreme Court. Warren Magnuson was confirmed 81-12.

The primaries continued, from March 14th to March 31st.

Blue - Connally
Red - DuPont
Green - Hatfield

With still a moderately popular war, it was hard for Hatfield to build a solid base on the Anti-War vote in the GOP, and failed to lay claim to the moderates. However, after having lost Minnesota and Connecticut to Hatfield (by narrow margins), and unable to gain any significant ground against Connally, Pete DuPont withdrew from the race, on March 31st.

Red - Jackson
Blue - McGovern

Despite initial losses, McGovern began to eek out wins in narrow states, due to vigorous campaigning and a much more anti-war electorate on the Democratic side. President Jackson was not able to campaign, being too busy with the war effort. Illinois was a shock to many, but McGovern, having gotten the endorsement of Senator Paul Simon, won the day.

The United States Army had sustained over 5,000 casualties since the war had begun, but had inflicted much more than that on the enemy. Soviet troops were fighting American troops, and after two weeks of fighting, Tehran was in American hands. The Left wing of the Democratic Party in the Senate and Congress were suggesting that we declare victory and leave, but President Jackson was not yet satisfied. In private, he disclosed that he knew of Soviet involvement and that he had intended it to be the "final battlefield" of the Cold War.

On the economic front, unemployment, which had previously fallen down to 9.3%, went back up to 12%, and inflation was still rising, due to a rising US debt. "These things take time," said President Jackson.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Ouch. Someone doesn't like the TL.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Dunno, but someone voted "THIS TL NEEDS TO STOP RIGHT NOW!"

Guilty.

I wanted to vote for ":up to 2004" option, and mistakenly clicked this, sorry.

Continue, of course.

Haha, that's fine. I'm kindof glad that, considering this is my first TL, there was only one vote to stop and it was accidental. Update coming tonight.

[#CriminalizeSobriety]

Blue - Connally
Red - DuPont
Green - Hatfield

Despite vigorous campaigning and some chance that Hatfield might be the nominee, a string of unlucky primaries through April (in which he only won Wisconsin and Vermont, as opposed to Connally's NY, PA, AZ, MO, and UT victories) it became clear that he would not be the nominee. After narrowly winning his home state of Oregon, he announced he would be withdrawing from the race.

Red - Jackson
Blue - McGovern

President Jackson still did not feel the need to campaign, remarking that it would be un-presidential. After two narrow upsets in New York and Wisconsin, President Jackson began campaigning in full force, "running the table" and shutting him out in most states, only allowing him to win VT, OR and MD. After winning Oregon, he also announced he would be withdrawing, to deliver a joint concession speech with Senator Hatfield.

The two campaigns held a final rally at St. Paul, Minnesota.

"My friends, my supporters, I thank you for all you have done. Whether it was volunteering, donations, or merely your vote, I thank you. I am only sorry that I have not yet lived up to your demands. What did you demand? A leader. Though we disagree on some issues, I believe that Senator Hatfield is a leader. Though some Republicans followed later on, he was one of the first to begin to say, that we must withdraw. President Jackson, and Senator Connally, these men are not leaders. I want you to consider the nominees, and ask yourself, 'Are either of these parties fit to lead?' "

At the convention, John Connally announced his Vice Presidential pick.



Senator John Chaffee of Rhode Island. Though not often on the national spotlight, John Chaffee was a friend of Connally's from the Nixon administration, and Connally felt he could be competitive in New England.

At the Democratic Convention, there was a brief push to dump Vice President Bentsen from the ticket due to concerns of President Jackson's health, but he refused outright.