The Biggest Mistakes of US Vice-Presidential Candidates: A Look at Historical Missteps

Choosing the right vice-presidential candidate is a complex decision that can significantly impact a presidential campaign. Throughout history, some vice-presidential candidates have made errors that affected not only their own positions but also the overall success of their presidential ambitions. This article delves into the most significant mistakes by US vice-presidential candidates, focusing on the impact of their actions and the lessons we can draw from these historical moments.

1. John Nance Garner: Regret at Giving Up Independence

John Nance Garner, a controversial choice as Franklin D. Roosevelt's running mate, regretted giving up his role as Speaker of the House to become Vice President. Garner famously described the office of Vice President as "not worth a bucket of warm sh*t." Despite his reservations, Garner's decision to sacrifice his independence to become the President's subordinate proved to be a fateful one.

Garner's tenure as Vice President was marked by his lack of autonomy. As the article notes, he "sacrificed his independence to become the President's subordinate," a position that left him with little power and influence. Garner's regret stems from the realization that he had given up the gavel of Speaker of the House, a role he cherished and was well suited for. This underscores the importance of a vice-presidential candidate's ability to maintain their independence and the balance between loyalty and assertiveness.

2. Aaron Burr: Tragic Consequences of Action and Ambition

Aaron Burr, serving as Thomas Jefferson's Vice President, made a grave error that altered the course of his career and history itself. His infamous duel with Alexander Hamilton in 1804 resulted in Hamilton's death, a tragic outcome that Burr couldn't have anticipated in his initial ambitions.

This incident prevented Burr from becoming President. His actions had severe consequences, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of even a single, critical mistake. The duel not only cost Hamilton his life but also cast a shadow over Burr's political career. The event is a striking example of how a single action can have unforeseen and devastating consequences.

3. The Hollow Presidential Office:VICE-Presidential Legacy

During the vice-presidential term, candidates often find themselves in a position of largely ceremonial duties with little real power. This can often lead to a sense of inadequacy, as the position leaves much to be desired in terms of tangible achievements. Vice presidents tend to focus on being seen as effective, competent, and loyal to the President, often at the expense of their own initiatives and aspirations.

John Nance Garner's quote, “not worth a bucket of warm spit” or more euphemistically, “not worth a bucket of warm sh*t,” encapsulates the reality of the vice-presidential role. The office's quiet, often undistinguished nature makes it difficult for vice-presidential candidates to make a significant positive impact. This can lead to a sense of neglect and frustration, as seen in Garner's case. Such experiences highlight the importance of a candidate's ability to maintain their personal integrity and the balance between service and authenticity.

Conclusion: Lessons for Future Vice-Presidential Candidates

The historical examples of John Nance Garner and Aaron Burr illustrate the critical importance of a vice-presidential candidate's actions and their potential consequences. Garner's regret underscores the value of independence and the importance of maintaining a balance between loyalty and assertiveness in this role. Meanwhile, Burr's tragic duel serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the unpredictable and far-reaching impacts of one's actions even in the most crucial moments.

For future vice-presidential candidates, these lessons offer valuable insights. Focusing on maintaining personal integrity and advocating for meaningful initiatives, even in the face of limited power, can help alleviate the sense of inadequacy and create a more effective and fulfilling role. By learning from the past, candidates can strive to make a lasting and positive impact, regardless of the often-ceremonial nature of the position.