Curtis Gans, American political scientist and author (b. 1937)

Curtis Bernard Gans, an influential American activist, incisive writer, and a renowned expert on American voting patterns, left an indelible mark on the nation's political landscape. Born on June 17, 1937, Gans dedicated his life to understanding and shaping democratic processes, playing a pivotal role in one of American political history's most extraordinary events. He passed away on March 15, 2015, at the age of 77 due to lung cancer, but his legacy as a sharp political observer and a tenacious activist endures.

The "Dump Johnson" Movement: A Catalyst for Change

Perhaps Gans's most prominent contribution to American political history was his instrumental role in the "Dump Johnson" movement. In 1967, alongside fellow activist Allard K. Lowenstein, Gans spearheaded this ambitious initiative. The movement was born out of a profound and growing opposition to the Vietnam War, a conflict that deeply divided the United States during the late 1960s. Initially, many dismissed the "Dump Johnson" effort as quixotic—an idealistic and impractical undertaking. After all, unseating a sitting president from his party's nomination was an exceptionally rare feat in American politics.

However, under the passionate leadership of Gans and Lowenstein, the movement gained significant momentum. Its grassroots organizing and persistent advocacy against the war resonated with an increasingly disillusioned public. The growing strength of the "Dump Johnson" campaign created substantial political pressure, setting in motion a series of events that ultimately convinced President Lyndon B. Johnson that seeking re-nomination for the presidency would be a difficult, divisive, and uncertain endeavor. Faced with this formidable challenge from within his own party, Johnson made the stunning announcement that he would not seek re-election, an unprecedented decision for a sitting president at the height of his power.

A Scholar of the American Electorate

Beyond his impactful activism, Curtis Bernard Gans was a leading authority on voter behavior, dedicating more than three decades to the meticulous study of turnout and voting patterns. His insights were invaluable to understanding the nuances of the American democratic process. Gans co-founded and served as the distinguished director of the Center for the Study of the American Electorate, an important institution formerly housed at American University in Washington, D.C. This center became a crucial resource for academics, journalists, and political strategists alike, providing data and analysis on the intricate dynamics of voter engagement.

Given his unparalleled expertise, Gans was a sought-after voice by major American publications, which frequently turned to him for commentary and analysis on election trends. His deep understanding of the electorate also led the U.S. State Department's Foreign Press Center to call upon him to brief international reporters during the crucial run-up to American elections, helping to provide clarity to a global audience. Furthermore, Gans shared his acumen as a consultant to esteemed organizations such as the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars and the National Committee for an Effective Congress. His hands-on experience also extended to the practical side of politics, as he successfully managed a number of political campaigns throughout his career, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and influential figure in American public life.

FAQs About Curtis Bernard Gans

Who was Curtis Bernard Gans?

Curtis Bernard Gans was a prominent American activist, writer, and a leading expert on American voting patterns. He is best known for co-founding and leading the "Dump Johnson" movement, which was instrumental in President Lyndon B. Johnson's decision not to seek re-election in 1968.

When was Curtis Bernard Gans born and when did he pass away?

Curtis Bernard Gans was born on June 17, 1937, and he passed away on March 15, 2015, at the age of 77, due to lung cancer.

What was the "Dump Johnson" movement?

The "Dump Johnson" movement was an influential political campaign co-founded by Curtis Bernard Gans and Allard K. Lowenstein in 1967. Driven by opposition to the Vietnam War, its goal was to prevent President Lyndon B. Johnson from being re-nominated by his party, ultimately leading to Johnson's decision to withdraw his candidacy.

What was Gans's contribution to the study of American elections?

Gans was a renowned expert on American voting patterns, studying turnout and voter behavior for over three decades. He co-founded and directed the Center for the Study of the American Electorate and was a frequent consultant and commentator for major publications and government bodies on election analysis.