who ran for president in 2012

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

17-03-2025

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The 2012 United States presidential election was a pivotal moment in American politics, pitting incumbent President Barack Obama against Republican challenger Mitt Romney. While these two were the main contenders, several other candidates also vied for the presidency, though with significantly less support. Let's delve into the major and minor candidates who ran in this historic election.

The Major Contenders: Obama and Romney

Barack Obama (Democrat): Incumbent President Obama secured the Democratic nomination relatively easily, fueled by his accomplishments during his first term and a strong base of support. His campaign focused on continuing his economic recovery policies and expanding access to healthcare through the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. His slogan, "Forward," emphasized his vision for the future of the United States.

Mitt Romney (Republican): Mitt Romney emerged victorious from a crowded Republican primary field. His campaign platform centered on economic issues, promising to repeal the ACA, cut taxes, and reduce government spending. He presented himself as a successful businessman capable of turning around the struggling economy.

The Other Candidates: A Diverse Field

While Obama and Romney dominated the race, several other candidates also appeared on the ballot, representing various political ideologies. Though they didn't stand a chance of winning, they offered alternative viewpoints and engaged in the democratic process. These included:

• Gary Johnson (Libertarian): Johnson, a former governor of New Mexico, championed libertarian principles, advocating for limited government, individual liberty, and free markets. His candidacy offered a stark contrast to the platforms of the two major parties.

• Jill Stein (Green): Stein, a physician and activist, ran on the Green Party ticket. Her campaign focused on environmental issues, social justice, and non-interventionist foreign policy. She represented a left-wing alternative to Obama.

• Virgil Goode (Constitution): Goode, a former U.S. Representative, ran under the Constitution Party banner. His campaign focused on traditional conservative values and a strict interpretation of the U.S. Constitution.

Understanding the 2012 Election Landscape

The 2012 election was shaped by several key factors, including:

• The Economic Recovery: The ongoing recovery from the Great Recession was a central issue. Obama touted his administration's efforts, while Romney criticized their effectiveness.

• Healthcare Reform: The Affordable Care Act was a major point of contention. Obama defended it as a necessary step towards universal healthcare, while Romney vowed to repeal it.

• Foreign Policy: Issues such as the war in Afghanistan and the rise of ISIS also played a role in the election.

• Social Issues: While not as prominent as economic issues, social issues like same-sex marriage and abortion rights remained relevant to certain segments of the electorate.

The Outcome: Obama's Re-election

Ultimately, President Barack Obama won re-election, defeating Mitt Romney in both the popular vote and the Electoral College. His victory solidified the Democratic Party's hold on the presidency and shaped the political landscape for years to come.

Conclusion: Remembering the 2012 Presidential Race

The 2012 presidential election remains a significant event in American political history. While Obama and Romney dominated the race, the participation of other candidates provided a broader range of perspectives. Examining this election helps us understand the political climate of the time and the issues that continue to shape American politics today. Understanding who ran for president in 2012 provides context for the political discourse that continues to unfold.