1976 United States Presidential Election (President Wallace)

The 1976 United States Presidential Election was the 48th quadrennial presidential election. Progressive nominee John Anderson of Illinois narrowly prevailed over Constitution nominee and incumbent Speaker of the House Gerald Ford. This election marked the first victory for the Progressive Party.

Anderson's narrow victory was mainly attributed to Ford's weakness as a candidate, and his more "moderate" views alienated many in the Constitution Party. This caused many to stay home on election day, or vote for the write-in candidacy of Lester Maddox for the "Constitutional" party. This gave Anderson the edge needed, as Progressive turnout was higher than previously, though ultimately there was a net decrease of five percent in the voting.

Anderson initially trailed behind Ford, but the latter's gaffes at the first and second Presidential debate gave him the boost needed, combined with the lower turnout, and the "candidacy" of Maddox (who himself endorsed Ford and did not approve of the write-in), allowed Anderson to capture the presidency on election day.