Everything Everywhere Daily: Episode Summary

Episode Title: The Election of 1788
Release Date: November 23, 2024
Host: Gary Arndt
Platform: Glassbox Media

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Election of 1788," host Gary Arndt delves into the inaugural presidential election of the United States. This election set the foundation for the nation's future electoral processes and highlighted the challenges of establishing a new government framework.

Background: From Articles of Confederation to the Constitution

Gary begins by contextualizing the election within the broader scope of American governance. He explains the limitations of the Articles of Confederation, the United States' first governing document:

"The Articles of Confederation established a confederation of sovereign states with a notably weak central government... It lacked the power to levy taxes or regulate commerce between states." (04:30)

These deficiencies led to difficulties in enforcing laws, managing finances, and resolving interstate disputes, prompting the need for a more robust constitution.

Constitutional Convention and the Birth of the Electoral College

Gary outlines the transition from the Articles to the Constitution during the 1787 Constitutional Convention:

"The decision was made to establish an executive, a single person who would lead the country... We know this as the Electoral College." (12:15)

The Electoral College was introduced as a compromise to balance power between Congress and the populace, aiming to prevent favoritism and undue influence in presidential selections.

The 1788 Election: Procedures and Participating States

The first presidential election was unique, spanning two calendar years due to the Constitution's recent ratification:

"The election of 1788 wasn't a close election and it wasn't a contentious election. It was, if anything, a rather awkward election." (30:45)

Gary details the methods states used to select their electors:

• Legislative Selection: Connecticut, New Jersey, Georgia, and South Carolina.
• Popular Vote: Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, albeit with extremely low voter turnout.

Notably, New York failed to submit any electors due to political deadlock between Federalists and Antifederalists.

George Washington’s Unanimous Selection

A pivotal point of the episode is the unanimous election of George Washington:

"Washington placed his hand upon a Bible which was hastily provided by the local Masonic Lodge... " (45:10)

Washington's unparalleled reputation as a Revolutionary War leader and his perceived moral integrity made him the unanimous choice:

• Respect and Admiration: His leadership during the American Revolutionary War.
• Above Partisan Politics: He was seen as a unifying figure unattached to any political faction.
• Public Sentiment: Widespread desire for Washington to lead the new nation.

Each elector cast one of their two votes for Washington, securing all 69 available votes.

Vice President Selection: The Case of John Adams

The process for selecting the Vice President under the original Electoral College system presented challenges:

"If every elector voted for both Washington and Adams, there would have been a tie for president." (52:30)

To avoid such an outcome, Alexander Hamilton influenced the vote distribution, preventing John Adams from receiving a unanimous tally. Adams secured 34 electoral votes, making him the Vice President by plurality rather than majority.

Inauguration of George Washington

Gary recounts the historic inauguration ceremony:

"The first presidential inauguration took place on April 30, 1789, in New York City... Washington placed his hand upon a Bible..." (60:20)

Key Highlights:

• Location: Federal Hall on Wall Street, New York City.
• Ceremony: Administered by Chancellor Robert R. Livingston, witnessed by a crowd below.
• Inaugural Address: Emphasized democratic principles, federalism, and Washington’s hopes for the new nation.

Conclusion: Legacy of the 1788 Election

Gary concludes by reflecting on the significance of the 1788 election:

"The election and inauguration of George Washington was a national milestone that reassured the American public about the stability and potential of their brand new government." (75:15)

He emphasizes that the successful election of Washington set enduring precedents for American democracy, fostering unity and confidence in the fledgling nation's electoral processes.

Key Takeaways

• Unprecedented Process: The 1788 election was the first of its kind, establishing foundational electoral practices.
• George Washington’s Unanimous Presidency: His selection underscored national unity and trust in leadership.
• Challenges in Vice Presidential Selection: Highlighted early flaws in the Electoral College system, eventually leading to reforms.
• Historical Significance: The election affirmed the viability of the new constitutional government, paving the way for future democratic elections.

Notable Quotes

• On the weakness of the Articles of Confederation:
  "They couldn't enforce any laws that had been passed... very weak relative to the other great European powers." (06:45)

• On Washington’s selection:
  "Washington was not affiliated with any political faction or party, which allowed him to be seen as a unifier who could govern impartially." (38:50)

• On the inauguration ceremony:
  "Washington placed his hand upon a Bible which was hastily provided by the local Masonic Lodge..." (60:30)

Production Credits

• Executive Producer: Charles Daniel
• Associate Producers: Benji Long and Cameron Keever
• Supporters: Special thanks to Patreon supporters and the show’s producers.
• Community Engagement: Join the Everything Everywhere Daily Facebook group or Discord server for discussions and more.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the "The Election of 1788" episode, providing listeners and newcomers alike with a clear understanding of the episode's content and significance.