The 8th Republican National Convention assembled in Exposition Hall in Chicago IL.
On the opening day of the convention, the national committee recommended Powell Clayton (AR) for temporary chairman. However, Henry C. Lodge (MA) nominated John Lynch (MS), who won by a 424-384 vote.
Other than a few minor credentials cases, the convention did not face many difficult issues until the time for the nominations.
Many delegates felt that it was Blaine's turn to run, since he had come so close in 1876 and 1880. Pres. Arthur had annoyed the Stalwarts and never was trusted by the Half Breeds. His support included the South and the Stalwarts who cared enough to attend.
On the first ballot, Blaine won a 56.5-vote plurality over Arthur. It was a highly sectional vote:
Candidate - North / Old CSA
--Blaine 296.5 / 38
--Arthur 121 / 157
--Edmunds 93 / 0
--Others 101.5 / 13
Blaine gained steadily on each ballot, and on the 4th ballot Illinois started the shift of favorite sons to Blaine. John A. Logan (IL) was nominated for VP.
Presidential Balloting, RNC 1884 |
Contender: ballot | 1st | 2d | 3d | 4th |
James G. Blaine | 334.5 | 349 | 375 | 541 |
Chester A. Arthur | 278 | 276 | 274 | 207 |
George F. Edmunds | 93 | 85 | 69 | 41 |
John A. Logan | 63.5 | 61 | 53 | 7 |
John Sherman | 30 | 28 | 25 | -- |
Others | 21 | 21 | 24 | 24 |
Temporary Chairman: John R. Lynch (MS) [African American]
Permanent Chairman: John B. Henderson (MO)
Keynote Speaker: John R. Lynch MS [thought to be the first keynote speaker at a national convention]
7th Republican National Convention (1880)
9th Republican National Convention (1888)
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