U.S. presidential election, 1940

Introduction

Although Franklin D. Roosevelt had been president for the traditional two terms, there was not yet a constitutional provision preventing him from running again. The continuing crisis in Europe made voters desire a strong and experienced president.

Democratic nomination

Roosevelt dithered about whether to run for a third term, but there was strong Democratic support for it and he chose to accept the nomination.

Republican nomination

Former Democrat Wendell Wilkie developed strong grass roots support for his candidacy, and after a long convention struggle triumphed over establishment candidates including Manhattan District Attorney Thomas E. Dewey and Ohio Senator Robert A. Taft.

General election

Wilkie campaigned against the New Deal and the government's lack of military preparedness. During the election, Roosevelt preempted the military issue by expanding military contracts. Wilkie then reversed his approach and accused Roosevelt of warmongering. On election day Roosevelt received 27 million votes to Wilkie's 22 million, and in the Electoral College, Roosevelt defeated Wilkie 449 to 82.

The election was held on November 5, 1940.

See also: President of the United States, U.S. presidential election, 1940, History of the United States (1918-1945)

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