1984 NJ Senate Election

The 1984 NJ Senate Election, A contest between the former Star of the New York Knicks, incumbent Sen. Bill Bradley & frm. Montclair Mayor Mary Mochary was a blowout for the one term Democrat, solidifying his status as a rising star - and nearly unbeatable presidential candidate.

Bill Bradley, a longtime opponent of Supplyside economics had shown his moderation in the senate by calling for tax reforms and cuts, with a plan that would simplify the tax codes to three tax brackets and limit deductions to only commonly used ones.

This moderation, combined with outspending Mochary 3 to 1, and Mochary leaving in the final three weeks to acompany her husband to California so he could get a heart transplant were the key factors in not just Bradley's win, but his landslide in the Republican leaning New Jersey

By contrast, Mochary's strategy had relied on tying herself to Reagan, arguing that 'voting for Bradley would be canceling one's vote for Reagan', however this argument proved unable to overcome senator Bradley's popularity.

Despite that, Mochary disagreed with the president on Abortion, the Equal Rights Amendment, and School Choice - only agreeing with him on Taxes.

Bill Bradley won all 14 Congressional Districts, all 21 Counties, and all 40 Legislative in his landslide, a complete sweep on all three levels.

Sources: