Would Harry S. Truman Have Won a Third Term?

The idea of Harry S. Truman running for a third term in the 1952 presidential election is a topic often debated by historians. Truman, who served as the 33rd President of the United States, did indeed attempt to seek re-election in 1952, but his efforts were short-lived due to a series of electoral and political challenges. This article explores the potential success of a third term and examines the factors that influenced the outcome.

Truman's Decision to Run

In 1952, Truman was up for re-election, and the Democratic Party held its nominating convention in Chicago. Despite the challenges and low public approval ratings, Truman believed he could secure the nomination and win a third term. However, his candidacy faced significant obstacles from the start.

Primary Election Challenges

The primaries were critical in determining the nomination. Truman performed poorly in the early primaries, losing to Tennessee Senator Estes Kefauver in the New Hampshire primary. This poor showing indicated that the party was disinclined to back his candidacy. Recognizing these early setbacks, Truman dropped out of the race and conceded the nomination to Kefauver.

Public Opinion and Approval Ratings

Truman's falling public approval ratings were a significant factor in his defeat. By the time of the primary, his approval rating had dropped to just 22 percent. This was a stark contrast to the 13 percent given to Harry Truman when he left office in 1953. The low ratings were attributed to several factors, including his involvement in the Korean War and the implementation of price controls, which were unpopular among many Americans.

Divisions Within the Democratic Party

The Democratic Party was divided during this period. Truman found himself at odds with key leaders in the Senate, including those from the Southern base of the party. This division weakened the party's unity and made it difficult for Truman to secure the nomination. His attempts to govern with strong partisan control further alienated some within the party.

Opposition from the GOP and the War Hero Eisenhower

The eventual Republican candidate, Dwight D. Eisenhower, was a former five-star general and a war hero. His popularity and perceived strong leadership provided a formidable challenge to any Democratic nominee. Eisenhower's reputation for effective military leadership and his promise to end the Korean War resonated strongly with many voters, further diminishing Truman's chances.

Historical Context and Truman's Legacy

Historically, Truman's decision to run for a third term was seen as a miscalculation. The period from 1945 to 1949 was considered part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency, and many Americans were eager for a change after four years of Democratic rule. The ongoing Korean War did not help Truman's public image, as the lack of progress in the conflict dampened voter enthusiasm for another term.

Conclusion: Truman's Departure and Legacy

Truman eventually took his advice from his wife Bess and decided not to seek another term. This decision reflected both his personal preferences and the political realities of the moment. Despite his lack of success, Truman went on to achieve a significant place in American history. Most modern historians rate him as a "near-great" president, appreciating his roles in ending World War II, the Marshall Plan, and his determination to support civil rights during a challenging time.

In summary, while Harry S. Truman ran for a third term in 1952, the combination of low approval ratings, internal party divisions, and the high popularity of the Republican candidate Dwight D. Eisenhower made it highly unlikely that he would have succeeded. The 1952 election remains a notable chapter in American political history, offering insights into the dynamics of presidential campaigns and leadership in times of national crisis.