They Came, They Ran, They Lost: What all your losing presidential candidates of the last 27 years are up to now
Beyond the ballot: The enduring legacies of presidential hopefuls in the last 27 years
In the rich tapestry of American politics since the 1700s, losing a presidential election hasn't necessarily marked the end of a candidate's story. Over the last three decades, a diverse cast of individuals has taken the national stage, vying for the highest office in the land. Each faced the trials of campaigns, the intensity of debates, and the weight of public scrutiny. Today, we delve into the post-electoral lives of prominent figures who, despite their setbacks, continued to shape the political landscape. From iconic politicians and seasoned statesmen to trailblazing entrepreneurs, their journeys are a testament to the sheer resilience demanded by the ever-evolving dynamics of American politics.
Bob Dole
Robert Joseph Dole, a distinguished politician, served Kansas in the US Senate and as the Republican presidential nominee in 1996, with Jack Kemp as his running mate. Before his 27-year Senate tenure, he was in the US House. Dole died on December 5, 2021, at 98, after battling stage four lung cancer.
Jack Kemp
Jack Kemp, Republican VP nominee in 1996 alongside Bob Dole, died in 2009 due to cancer. Apart from his political career, he was a professional football player and served as Housing Secretary under President George HW Bush. His legacy endures in Republican circles.
Ross Perot
Business magnate Ross Perot founded Electronic Data Systems and Perot Systems. He ran as an independent in '92 and '96, leaving a significant impact on third-party politics. Perot's running mate in 1992 was James Stockdale, and in 1996, it was Pat Choate. Perot died from leukemia in 2019.
Pat Choate
Reform Party VP nominee Pat Choate, pivotal in party recognition, contributed to the development of economics and patent reform post-1996. He taught at George Washington University and hosted radio shows, retiring at 82. Choate's running mate in 1996 was Ross Perot. Choate has hosted radio shows, taught Advanced Issues Management at GWU, and served on the Board of Directors for the American Innovators for Patent Reform.
Albert Gore Jr
Former Vice President Albert Gore actively addresses climate change, leading The Climate Reality Project, Generation Investment Management, and engaging with tech giants like Apple and Google. Gore's running mate in 2000 was Joe Lieberman. Gore is a partner in the venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins, heading its climate change solutions group. He serves on the Board of Directors of Apple Inc.
Joseph Lieberman
Senator Lieberman, VP nominee in 2000 alongside Al Gore, transitioned to legal practice at Kasowitz, Benson, Torres, and Friedman. Lieberman's senior counsel role is complemented by being the honorary national founding chair of No Labels, promoting bipartisan cooperation in American politics.
Ralph Nader
Noted activist Ralph Nader founded Capitol Hill Citizen in 2022. The newspaper focuses on corporate influence, government corruption, and media challenges. Nader's running mate in 1996 and 2000 was Winona LaDuke. Nader's newspaper focuses on issues like the growth of corporate influence on the federal government, corruption among lawmakers, and challenges in mainstream political media.
Winona LaDuke
Green Party VP nominee Winona LaDuke remains active in environmental causes, leading Honor the Earth and operating an industrial hemp farm on the White Earth Indian Reservation. LaDuke's running mate in 1996 and 2000 was Ralph Nader. LaDuke's work extends to tribal land claims, preservation, and sustainable development, including her 40-acre industrial hemp farm.
Patrick Buchanan
Political figure Patrick Buchanan, a three-time presidential candidate, announced retirement from writing in January. While less in the spotlight, his influence on conservative politics persists. Buchanan's running mate in 2000 was Ezola Foster. Buchanan's retirement marks a shift, but his historical influence as a political commentator and key figure in the paleoconservative movement prevails.
Ezola Foster
Political activist Ezola Foster, VP nominee in 2000 alongside Pat Buchanan, left the Reform Party for the Constitution Party in 2002. Her legacy endures despite her death in 2018. Foster died on May 22, 2018, in Boulder City, Nevada, US, at the age of 79. Foster's departure from the Reform Party for the Constitution Party cemented her legacy as a conservative political firebrand.
John Kerry
John Kerry, the Democratic nominee in 2004, serves as the US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, emphasizing climate diplomacy and environmental issues. Kerry's running mate in 2004 was John Edwards. Kerry's role as a climate envoy showcases his continued commitment to addressing global environmental challenges on the diplomatic stage.
John Edwards
Former VP nominee John Edwards transitioned to a personal injury lawyer in North Carolina after a political career marked by a Senate term and presidential bid. Edwards' running mate in 2004 was John Kerry.
John McCain III
Senator John McCain, a decorated military officer and 2008 GOP nominee, died in 2018. His legacy includes a dedicated service record and a run for the highest office. McCain's running mate in 2008 was Sarah Palin. McCain's legacy encompasses both his military service and political career, leaving a lasting impact on American history.
Sarah Palin
Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, 2008 VP nominee, continues advocacy for conservative causes, endorsing candidates, and maintaining a media presence.
Mitt Romney
Mitt Romney, the 2012 GOP nominee, serves as a US Senator from Utah. In 2023, he announced retirement from the Senate after completing his term. Romney's running mate in 2012 was Paul Ryan. Romney's decision not to seek re-election marks the end of an illustrious political career that includes a presidential run and service in the Senate.
Paul Ryan
After leaving public office, former Speaker Paul Ryan transitioned to academia, serving as a professor at the University of Notre Dame and engaging in non-profit work. Ryan's post-speaker career involves academic contributions, non-profit ventures, and strategic involvement in consulting and management companies.
Hillary Clinton
Since her 2016 election loss to Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton occasionally offers political insights and hints at a more active role. Speculations are abuzz about reviving the Clinton Global Initiative. Clinton's running mate in 2016 was Tim Kaine.
Timothy Michael Kaine
After losing the 2016 presidential election alongside Hillary Clinton, Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia has announced his intention to run for re-election to the Senate in 2024, continuing his long-standing commitment to public service.