National Politics: Republican Primaries and Convention 1972

1972 Republican Primaries. In the spring of 1971, distressed over his low approval ratings in the polls, President Nixon feared he would not be renominated. In the spring primaries of 1972, however, his only challengers were Rep. Paul N. McCloskey of California, who campaigned on an antiwar platform, and Rep. John M. Ashbrook of Ohio, seeking to steer the president toward a more conservative foreign policy. Nixon coasted to victory over both men. The only question remaining among Republicans was Nixon's choice for vice-president. Nixon himself hinted that Vice-president Agnew might be dumped in favor of former Democrat John Connally of Texas. Connally had no real support among Republicans, however, and Agnew was retained.

An Enormous War Chest.

Nixon had spent $36.5 million in the 1968 campaign, much of that money raised through generous contributions by the rich. Congress, concerned over undue political influence on...

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