The 1968 US Presidential Election: Why Nixon Prevailed Over the Incumbent

The 1960s were profoundly transforming the United States, and the 1968 presidential election served as a critical turning point in American political history. The candidates, the campaign dynamics, and the socio-political context all played a significant role in shaping the outcome of this election. This article explores why Richard Nixon triumphed over the incumbent, Lyndon B. Johnson, in the 1968 presidential election.

The Pre-Election Context: The Eisenhower Years and Beyond

The Eisenhower years were marked by immense influence from his brothers, John Foster Dulles and Allen Dulles, who served as key figures in the State Department and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) respectively. This era was characterized by covert foreign policies and a facade of domestic tranquility, often referred to as "I Like Ike."

However, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and his successor, Lyndon B. Johnson, disrupted the political landscape. Johnson's tumultuous tenure and the burgeoning anti-war movement led to a complex and dynamic political climate. Johnson's decision not to run again in 1968 further complicated the situation, setting the stage for a new contender to rise to prominence.

Nixon's Campaign Strategy

Richard Nixon re-entered the political arena in 1968, leveraging a combination of fundraising, strategic alliances, and an appealing campaign narrative. Nixon was coached by key figures such as H.R. Haldeman and Roger Ailes, who were adept at utilizing advertising and public relations to build a compelling image for Nixon.

Nixon positioned himself as a calming force during a period of political and social chaos. His campaign capitalized on the disillusionment of voters with the Johnson administration's handling of the Vietnam War and domestic issues such as civil rights and urban unrest.

The Disruption of Johnson's Tenure

Lyndon B. Johnson, the incumbent, faced a variety of challenges that hindered his re-election campaign. His decision not to run for re-election in 1968 was perceived as a strategic move, but it also left the Democratic Party in a weakened position. Johnson's handling of the Vietnam War was particularly contentious, culminating in escalating conflict and public dissent.

President Johnson's Vice President, Hubert Humphrey, entered the race as the Democratic nominee. Humphrey faced an arduous challenge in a politically divided nation. Unlike the Presidents, VPs have a more challenging path to victory when running for the presidency. Out of 19 VPs who have sought election, only 6 have succeeded, and future Presidents Nixon and Biden were not previously VPs when they won.

The Rise of Hubert Humphrey and Eugene McCarthy

During the 1968 primaries, Democratic Senator Hubert Humphrey and Senator Eugene McCarthy, a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War, emerged as prominent contenders. McCarthy gained significant support from anti-war Democrats, but his victory in the primary was short-lived, and he withdrew from the race.

Robert F. Kennedy, the brother of J.F. Kennedy and a vocal critic of the Johnson administration, also entered the race but was tragically assassinated shortly after winning the California primary. His assassination further polarized the Democratic Party, leaving Humphrey to navigate the complex and fractured field.

The Outcomes of the General Election

The general election saw Nixon securing a decisive victory over Humphrey. Nixon's campaign successfully tapped into the growing dissatisfaction with the Johnson administration and the broader political climate. The use of television and advertising played a crucial role in shaping public perception and voter support.

The election results demonstrated a clear mandate for Nixon, who campaigned on a platform of stability and a Nixon peace plan, which included a few withdrawals of troops from Vietnam. Humphrey's campaign struggled to unify the Democratic Party and address the critical issues that voters were concerned about.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the 1968 US presidential election marked a significant shift in American politics. The incumbent, Lyndon B. Johnson, did not run, leaving the field open for new dynamics. Richard Nixon capitalized on the political void and effectively navigated the complex and turbulent environment to secure his victory. This election highlighted the importance of campaign strategies, socio-political factors, and the evolving nature of American political discourse.