Ron Elving

The lessons of history about second-term presidents and second-term Republicans in particular are not just the stuff of textbooks. They can offer guidance and perhaps even temper expectations.

Former President Donald Trump needs voters who may have misgivings about him or some of his behavior but who have deep loyalty to the Republican Party or deep aversion to the Democrats.

It is not uncommon for political commentators to call a late-breaking story during a presidential election an "October surprise" — even when there is little evidence that it mattered all that much.

Vice presidential debates have produced many memorable moments, but it’s hard to say any has made a decisive difference in the election outcome. It’s worth recalling how much media heat and drama they have generated.

Far from being disqualifying, this feature of the Trump persona presents itself as part and parcel of his appeal.

A look back at other sitting vice presidents who were running for the top job and debating on TV against the nominee of the opposition party: Gore in 2000, George H.W. Bush in 1988 and Nixon in 1960.

In the months leading up to DNC 2024, "Chicago ‘68" has been repeatedly conjured. But there is nothing in this political climate to compare to '68 and the all-encompassing anxiety over Vietnam.

All three branches of the federal government had been engaged, including actors within the executive branch who saw their duty to the law more than to the chief executive who had put them in office.

Both men brought an end to their presidencies by declining the nomination of their party for another term.

Biden’s Democratic critics have compared his achievements to that of President Lyndon B. Johnson, while noting LBJ had bowed out in the best interests of the party and the country and provided a model for others.