While multiple factors contributed to President Carter's defeat in the 1980 election, the option that best explains his defeat is conservative responses to inflation. During Carter's presidency, the U.S. faced significant economic challenges, including high inflation and unemployment rates, which created widespread discontent among voters. The public's frustration with the economy led to a conservative backlash and the election of Ronald Reagan, who promised solutions to economic issues and a return to traditional values. Carter's policies, while focused on human rights and foreign affairs, were overshadowed by the economic difficulties at home, making inflation a critical factor in his electoral defeat.
Which of President Carter's policies best explains his defeat in the 1980 election?
(1 point)
• reforms to Social Security and the tax code
• support for human rights
• foreign policy in the Middle East
conservative responses to inflation
1 answer