Page "Warren G. Harding" Paragraph 22

In 1918, when Theodore Roosevelt was entertaining plans ( later abandoned ) to reprise his presidency, he considered Harding had strong potential to run and serve as Vice President, and discussed with Harry Daugherty the desirability of having Harding on his ticket.

In 1919, the first candidate to declare for the GOP nomination was General Leonard Wood.

The GOP bosses were nevertheless determined to have a dependable listener, and were lukewarm toward the General.

Some in the party began to scout for such an alternative, and Harding's name arose, despite his reluctance, due to his unique ability to draw vital Ohio votes.

Also at the forefront of a throng of candidates for the nomination were Hiram Johnson, Frank Lowden and Herbert Hoover.

Harry Daugherty, who became Harding's campaign manager, and who was sure none of these candidates could garner a majority, convinced Harding to run after a marathon discussion of six-plus hours.

Daugherty's campaign style was variously described as pugnacious, devious and no holds barred.

For example, shortly before the GOP convention, Daugherty struck a deal with millionaire and political opportunist Jake Harmon, whereby 18 Oklahoma delegates whose votes Harmon had bought for Lowden were committed to Harding as a second choice if Lowden's effort faltered.