Hello and welcome to another edition of the presidential election series. Today, we’re diving into the Election of 1984; Ronald Reagan, having become a popular figure in American politics, is seeking a second term in what turns out to be one of the biggest election victories in U.S. history. Let’s explore how it all unfolded.
The Reagan Revolution
Following his decisive victory over Jimmy Carter in the Election of 1980, former actor and Governor of California Ronald Reagan spearheaded a conservative tidal wave that reshaped the nation. Despite grappling with issues like stagflation, a rising crack epidemic, and an assassination attempt in March 1981, Reagan’s administration made notable strides. By 1983, the economy was recovering, Reagan had engaged in talks with the Soviet Union to reduce nuclear arms, and U.S. involvement in Grenada, among other successes, fostered a renewed sense of pride and patriotism.
However, Reagan’s presidency wasn’t without its challenges. The national debt and deficit soared from $74 billion in 1980 to $208 billion in 1983. His refusal to negotiate with striking Air Traffic Controllers marked a significant blow to labor unions, and his continuation of deregulation and supply-side economic policies—known as “Reaganomics”—contributed to wealth inequality and a boom/bust economic cycle that wouldn’t stabilize for years. Despite these issues, Reagan’s popularity remained high, leading to an easy renomination alongside his vice president, George H.W. Bush. This marked the first and only instance since the Eisenhower/Nixon ticket of 1956 that both the Presidential and Vice Presidential nominations were uncontested.
Picking the Democratic Nominee
The early 1980s were a mixed bag for the Democratic Party. They retained a strong presence in Congress but were plagued by corruption scandals, including the ABSCAM sting operation, and faced a crushing defeat in the previous presidential election. The Democrats needed a candidate who could invigorate the base and challenge a popular incumbent.
By 1982, with Ted Kennedy out of the race, and John Glenn and George McGovern failing to gain traction, the major Democratic contenders for the 1984 nomination were:
- Gary Hart: Senator from Colorado, seen as a representative of the “New Democrats,” who favored more moderate policies.
- Jesse Jackson: Civil rights activist and Baptist minister, making history as the first African American to run for the presidency with significant national support.
- Walter Mondale: Former Vice President and Senator from Minnesota, known for making the VP role more significant and advisory.
Despite Carter’s mixed legacy, Mondale’s tenure as Vice President was highly regarded. Jackson, initially underestimated, secured significant primary wins, but controversy over some of his remarks and policies limited his appeal. Hart, a fresh face in politics, struggled with vague policy proposals but gained traction. Mondale’s memorable retort to Hart’s vagueness—“Where’s the Beef?”—helped him secure the nomination.
Mondale chose Geraldine Ferraro, U.S. Representative from New York, as his running mate, making history as the first female nominee from a major party.
The Campaigns
In the Election of 1984, Reagan’s high polling numbers reflected his popularity despite high unemployment and discontent among young Americans. His controversial remarks, including a joke about bombing the Soviet Union and misuse of Bruce Springsteen’s song “Born in the USA,” coupled with disparaging comments about minorities, cast a shadow over his campaign.
Mondale’s campaign faced its own hurdles, including his admission of raising taxes—a difficult sell during an era of high tax rates. His campaign was characterized by cautious liberalism, a call for a nuclear freeze, and criticism of Reagan’s “Star Wars” space program. Reagan’s campaign, by contrast, highlighted economic recovery and American revitalization through ads like “A Bear in the Woods” and “Morning in America.”
Despite hopes that Ferraro would sway female voters, the impact was minimal. Ferraro faced criticism from Roman Catholics and allegations regarding campaign contributions, though these were eventually cleared.
Presidential Debates
Reagan’s age was a significant issue in the 1984 election, with concerns about his ability to perform at 73. In their first debate, Reagan appeared off-guard, allowing Mondale to gain an unexpected advantage. The vice presidential debate between Bush and Ferraro was largely uneventful, with Bush’s sarcastic comments being a notable moment.
In the second debate, Reagan delivered a memorable retort to concerns about his age, saying, “I will not make age an issue of this campaign. I am not going to exploit, for political purposes, my opponent’s youth and inexperience.” This remark helped Reagan regain his footing and diminished Mondale’s chances.
The Results
In the Election of 1984, Ronald Reagan achieved a landslide victory. He secured 525 electoral votes and 58.8% of the popular vote, marking the highest electoral vote win in U.S. history, surpassing only the unopposed victories of James Monroe and George Washington. Mondale, with just 13 electoral votes and 40.6% of the popular vote, performed the worst for a Democratic presidential candidate since George McGovern, narrowly winning only his home state of Minnesota.
Reagan’s re-election solidified his place as a dominant figure in American politics. With his landslide victory, he became the oldest person ever re-elected as president, setting the stage for a complex period ahead. And that was the election of 1984. Reagan’s overwhelming triumph set the tone for his second term, with many challenges awaiting in the years to come. Stay tuned for more on the next chapter of presidential history.
