Dukakis 1988 Campaign Reproduction T-Shirt
Governor Michael Dukakis of Massachusetts quickly became the Democratic front-runner in 1988 after early favorite Gary Hart withdrew due to allegations of sexual improprieties. One by one, Dukakis' opponents withdrew as the primary season moved forward. When the convention took place in Atlanta, only Jesse Jackson remained. Dukakis won on the first ballot, after receiving 2,876 votes, compared to Jacksonís 1,218. Dukakis chose Senator Lloyd Benson of Texas as his vice-presidential running mate. The future president and then governor of Arkansas, Bill Clinton nominated Dukakis. When the campaign began, Governor Dukakis held a clear lead over Vice President Bush. Then, the Republicans successfully attacked Dukakis in a number of ways. One of the most notable criticisms was an attack on Dukakis surrounding the furlough release of Willie Horton, an African American convicted of murder. Horton was released on a weekend furlough from prison while Dukakis was governor. Bush stated: "Don't le