George J. Mitchell Department of Special Collections & Archives

U.S. Senate : Campaign Records. 1988 Election.

11.5 linear feet.
Arranged by subject.
Catalog Number: M202.6.5.2

Background Note:
In 1988, Senator Mitchell launched his campaign for reelection against Republican candidate Jasper S. Wyman. Mitchell held a formidable lead from the outset, due largely to his voting record and recent Iran-Contra hearings. "Jack" Wyman, executive director of the Christian Civic League of Maine, attacked the morality of Mitchell's voting record, promoting himself as "An Effective and Responsible Leader for Maine and the Nation." The Mitchell campaign ran an efficient and highly organized race, extolling the Senator's record with regard to Iran-Contra, preservation of the Gulf of Maine, health care reform, veterans' affairs, Social Security, and defense spending, among others. Mitchell won in a landslide, capturing 81% of the popular vote.

Description:
Records span a period ranging from Mitchell's gubernatorial race of 1974 through the 1982 election and concluding with his reelection in 1988. Administrative records contain subject files, schedules, correspondence, staff memos, political endorsements, mailings, fundraising materials, a briefing book, Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee materials, and other material types. Financial records include contribution cards, invoices, bills, check stubs, deposit slips and Federal Election Commission reports.

In his 1988 campaign Mitchell relied on the support of Larry Benoit [campaign manager], Martha Pope, Mary McAleney, Barbara McGough, Grace Reef, Sharon Sudbay, Barbara Keefe, and Chris Williams, among many others.

Access Restrictions: Restricted until January 3, 2015.