4. Robert M. La Follette
Election: 1924 Party: Progressive
Votes / Percentage: 4,833,821 / 16.62
Electoral votes / Total: 13 / 531
Running mate: Burton K. Wheeler
Twelve years after Teddy Roosevelt attempt, another Progressive Party incarnation had a noted performance in presidential elections. Its candidate Robert M. La Follette was a former governor of Wisconsin and a member of the US Senate. He ran in the 1924 election on the platform of nationalization of railroads, prohibition of child labor and strong opposition to the US imperialism. He also suggested that a referendum should be called before the president was able to declare war, disappointed with President Wilson’s politics during the Great War. La Follette is most remembered for his defense of free speech during the wartime, considering it essential for voices not in agreement with the government to be heard.
