Nov 3, 1976: Jimmy Carter wins with 'Trust me' slogan Jimmy Carter has been confirmed as the next President of the United States after a closely-fought contest which gave him 51% of the popular vote. Mr Carter claimed victory for the Democrats shortly after dawn in Atlanta but a Republican demand for the impounding of the New York State voting machines seemed to place the result in question. The final results show Mr Carter won 51% of the popular vote, three points ahead of Mr Ford. Despite the closeness of the race, the country is overwhelmingly under Democratic control. In the Senate the Democrats hold of a lead of 61-38. They hold the House of Representatives by 290-145. Interviews conducted with people leaving polling stations suggested Mr Carter had attracted a big following among Roman Catholics. It had been assumed his strong Baptist beliefs would alienate the Catholics. He also appeared to have strong support among blacks and young people. Sound familiar? But after that, total rejection of the Democrats until Clinton. Winning the Presidency, the Senate, the House, 51% of the popular vote... and nothing to show for it at the end of the day. It can happen; don't lose heart...