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Ordered Liberty

Contingent election

1856 Presidential Election

No candidate won a majority of electoral votes — decided by state delegations in the House of Representatives, 19 of 36 to win. Each ballot is drawn by state delegation.

First ballot

19 delegations to win of 36
FLSCGAYCLIALMSORNCARTNTXVAKYMDDEPANJOHNYCTMARINHVTMEMIILMGIAMOWIMNMLAURGCHSONMCADKIBCWACMKHHSOG
35
1
  • National3597.2%
  • Popular Democratic12.8%

John Motley Morehead secured an absolute majority on the first ballot with the full support of the Liberal Party; President James A. Pearce carried only New York. Morehead was inaugurated the 15th President.