Dramatic Moments: Floor Fights, Boos, and Prolonged Kisses in Convention History

WASHINGTON — Back in 1948, both the Republican and Democratic parties showcased an unexpected camaraderie, holding their national conventions in Philadelphia. They went so far as to share some of the decorations, such as American flags and bunting. This example of cooperation is hard to imagine in today’s politically charged environment.

Both parties had chosen Philadelphia’s Municipal Auditorium due to its existing setup for live television coverage, a groundbreaking achievement at the time. To cut costs, the Democrats asked the Republicans to leave their decorations in place for their convention 17 days later. The Republicans agreed, even though some items had become faded and worn.

Our political landscape has changed remarkably since then. Modern conventions are now meticulously planned, with every detail choreographed for TV, showcasing party unity. This week, as Republicans meet in Milwaukee to nominate former President Donald Trump, the Democratic convention slated for Aug. 19 could see more turbulence. The hot topic is whether President Joe Biden should remain the face of the Democratic ticket.

Even in today’s tightly controlled conventions, surprises still occur. One memorable incident came in 2016 when Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, whom Trump had defeated in the primaries, refused to endorse Trump at the GOP convention in Cleveland. Cruz urged delegates to “vote your conscience,” a comment that provoked prolonged boos. Despite eventually endorsing Trump, Cruz’s moment on the stage was exceedingly tense, to the point that his wife had to be escorted from the convention floor.

The 2012 Republican convention featured another peculiar episode. In Tampa, Florida, actor and director Clint Eastwood spent 12 minutes conversing with an empty chair, pretending it was then-President Barack Obama, even mimicking responses. The unconventional speech included jabs at then-Vice President Joe Biden, which in retrospect seemed to foreshadow current concerns about Biden’s suitability for a second term.

Memorable moments aren’t exclusive to the Republicans. In 2004, a relatively unknown Illinois state senator named Barack Obama captivated the Democratic convention in Boston. Describing himself as “a skinny kid with a funny name,” Obama introduced the nation to his “audacity of hope.” Similarly, in 2000, Al Gore’s unusual public display of affection with his wife Tipper during his convention speech overshadowed his words — though the kiss did little to alter perceptions about his public persona.

The 1984 Democratic convention was notable for Geraldine Ferraro becoming the first woman on a major presidential ticket. Though Walter Mondale and Ferraro lost resoundingly to Reagan, Ferraro’s candidacy broke new ground. Fast forward to 2008 and 2016 — Sarah Palin’s dynamic speech boosted John McCain temporarily, while Hillary Clinton’s historic nomination as the first female presidential candidate for a major party did not culminate in a victory against Trump. In the last cycle, Kamala Harris became the first woman on a winning ticket, a nod to ongoing progress within the Democratic party.

Political conventions can be battlegrounds for party control. In 1976, Ronald Reagan almost wrestled the GOP nomination from incumbent President Gerald Ford. Although Ford narrowly won, he lost the general election to Jimmy Carter. Conversely, Carter had his own dramatic moments in 1980, facing a fierce challenge from Ted Kennedy during the Democratic convention in New York.

Calls for Biden to step down have no modern parallel for a sitting president but are reminiscent of historical controversies. In 1972, Democratic presidential nominee George McGovern had to replace his VP pick, Thomas Eagleton, after it was disclosed he had undergone electroshock therapy. Eagleton’s short stint was followed by Sargent Shriver, but Nixon won in a landslide.

The 1968 Democratic convention showcased the volatility of the times. After Robert F. Kennedy’s assassination, Vice President Hubert Humphrey secured the nomination amid a chaotic floor fight over ending the Vietnam War. Thousands of anti-war protestors outside faced police violence, with tear gas permeating even Humphrey’s hotel suite. Such tumult is rarely seen today, although with the Democratic convention returning to Chicago, and unsolved tensions over Biden’s future and the administration’s policies, echoes of 1968 seem possible.