Republicans take back the White House: The presidential election of 1888

Although Grover Cleveland was a popular president and the economy was in good shape, the election of 1888 would not grant him another term, at least this time. Cleveland was nominated for re-election on the first ballot at the Democratic National Convention that year, and Allen Thurman was nominated as vice president. Running for the Republican Party was Indiana Senator Benjamin Harrison, grandson of former president William Henry Harrison. Once again, the election proved to be very close, with Cleveland actually winning the popular vote, but losing in the electoral college. Harrison managed to win New York, Cleveland's home state, giving him the election. The tariff was a hot issue in 1888, with Cleveland wanting to lower it to reduce taxation, and Harrison supporting the high tariff to promote commerce and keep wages up. Upon leaving the White House in the spring of 1889, Cleveland's wife, Frances, promised they would be back, and it became true in the next election. The administration of Benjamin Harrison is often remembered for Congressional legislation passed during his term, such as the McKinley Tariff, the Sherman Antitrust Act, and the Sherman Silver Purchase Act. Harrison was also president when the most states were admitted to the Union: 6. Harrison was also the first president to have his voice recorded and was in office when electricity was installed in the White House. This item pictured is a token/medal from Harrison's 1888 campaign, showing him and his vice president, Levi Morton. Tokens and medals from this election are somewhat common, and a few can be found for less than $25. This one is a little more scarce since it pictures both candidates. Any items like posters, bandannas, 3-D items, or lapel items showing both candidates and their VP's are rare and normally over $100.