William Howard Taft was President Roosevelt's chosen successor. He received the nomination on the first ballot. At the Democratic convention in Denver, William Jenning Bryan once again received the nomination on the first ballot.
The campaign got off to a slow start, Taft was not an enthusiastic campaigner, and Bryan did not seem as driven as he had in the past. Under President Roosevelt's prodding Taft became more engaged in the campaign.
The major issue of the campaign was who could best carry out the vastly popular policies of Roosevelt. Although Taft was Roosevelt's hand picked successor, Bryan claimed that he was more likely to continue Roosevelt's policies. Bryan made a major mistake when he called for the socialization of the railroads. Taft won an overwhelming victory.
Participation of Eligible Voters: 65.4%
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