Welcome to the first piece in a series we've named “The Closest Calls,” where we dive into some of the most narrowly decided presidential elections in American history. In this article, we will explore the outcome of the 1912 presidential election, a pivotal moment that shaped the political landscape of the early 20th century.
In at least four presidential elections since 1900, a third-party candidate attracted enough votes to arguably change the outcome. The 1912 election was no exception. With the entry of former President Theodore Roosevelt into the race as a Progressive Party candidate, the Republican Party faced a significant split, which ultimately led to the election of Democrat Woodrow Wilson.
At first, Theodore Roosevelt, who was commander-in-chief from 1901 to 1909, seemed an unlikely candidate for the 1912 presidential election. However, his dissatisfaction with the direction of the Republican Party and his progressive ideals propelled him to form the Progressive Party, also known as the Bull Moose Party. This decision would have far-reaching consequences.
The Republican Party, under the leadership of President William Howard Taft, faced internal divisions. Taft represented the conservative wing of the party, while Roosevelt represented the progressive faction. This split resulted in a weakened Republican vote, allowing Woodrow Wilson to secure the presidency.
Woodrow Wilson, a former governor of New Jersey, carried his home state and won several pivotal swing states, securing a total of 435 electoral votes. His victory marked the first time a New Jerseyan had won the presidency. Wilson's campaign focused on progressive reforms, including his proposed New Freedom platform, which promised to break up monopolies and enhance economic opportunities for all Americans.
The 1912 election also highlighted the growing influence of third-party candidates. Theodore Roosevelt's Progressive Party achieved a significant 27% of the popular vote, while Taft's Republican Party received only 23%. This split in the Republican vote ultimately handed the election to Wilson.
Republicans should learn from their own history to avoid a replay of the 1912 election in 2024. The division within the party allowed for a Democratic victory, emphasizing the importance of party unity. By recognizing the consequences of internal divisions, the Republican Party can strive for a more cohesive and effective campaign strategy.
In the context of gun laws and national security, the 1912 election did not have a direct impact. However, the election did mark a turning point in American politics, emphasizing the power of third-party candidates and the need for strong party unity.
This is part of Two Bad, a series exploring Americans' lackluster enthusiasm for the 2024 election and the problem of the third-party candidates. The 1912 election serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the potential consequences when voters are divided among multiple parties.
In conclusion, the outcome of the 1912 presidential election was a victory for Woodrow Wilson, facilitated by the split in the Republican Party caused by Theodore Roosevelt's Progressive Party candidacy. This election highlighted the growing influence of third-party candidates and the importance of party unity. Republicans should heed the lessons of the past to ensure a stronger campaign in future elections.
