Presidential Losers #49: Bob Dole and Ross Perot

Bob Dole

Ross Perot

In spite of scandals swirling around the Clinton White House involving financial dealings back in Little Rock and allegations of a hibbidy-bibbidy nature regarding Bill himself, the Clinton presidency was very popular.  The economy was improving, and Roseanne had finally been cancelled, so people were feeling upbeat.  

In his re-election, Clinton's margin of victory widened, and Republican challenger Bob Dole earned even fewer electoral votes than George Bush.  Only Ross Perot remained steady, with a solid zero electoral votes.  

Ross was as goofy and paranoid as ever, but even these presidential qualities failed to energize voters.  As Bob, it seemed almost miraculous he could energize himself.  He was no older than Reagan had been - who was? - but he lacked the vim and vigor to make using Grecian Formula convincing.  One pundit said every time he saw Bob Dole, he realized there was an empty coffin somewhere in Transylvania.  

Result

Bill Clinton: 379

Bob Dole: 159

Ross Perot: 0