In 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt (Democratic) won 472 of 531 electoral votes, defeating Herbert Hoover by 413 EV during the New Deal Coalition era. In 2008, Barack Obama (Democratic) won 365 of 538, defeating John McCain by 192 EV during the Modern Polarization era. Turnout: 56.9% vs 61.6%.
vs
1932
New Deal Coalition
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Democratic
Electoral votes
472 of 531
EV margin
413
Popular vote
57.4%
Turnout
56.9%
Runner-up
Herbert Hoover (Rep)
Franklin Roosevelt won in a massive landslide over incumbent Herbert Hoover as the Great Depression devastated the nation. With 25% unemployment, Hoover was blamed for economic catastrophe and humiliated at the polls. Roosevelt promised a 'New Deal' for the American people and brought hope with his famous declaration that 'the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.' FDR built a broad coalition of urban workers, farmers, ethnic minorities, and the Solid South that would dominate American politics for decades.
2008
Modern Polarization
Barack Obama
Democratic
Electoral votes
365 of 538
EV margin
192
Popular vote
52.9%
Turnout
61.6%
Runner-up
John McCain (Rep)
Barack Obama made history as the first African American elected president, defeating Senator John McCain in an election dominated by the 2008 financial crisis. The economic collapse in September 2008 destroyed McCain's lead and tied him to the unpopular Bush administration. Obama's grassroots fundraising and organizing shattered records. McCain's selection of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as running mate initially boosted his campaign but her interviews raised doubts about her preparedness. Obama flipped key states including North Carolina, Indiana, and Virginia.