The United States Presidential Election of 1988 was the 51st quadrennial American Presidential election. Contested between Democratic Colorado Senator Gary Hart and Republican New York Representative Jack Kemp. After Vice President Walter Huddleston refused to run in the Democratic primary, Gary Hart managed to take the lead against most opposition. After their respective national conventions, the candidates both ran attacking campaigns, however, Hart managed to capitalize on the growing economy, and stable national, and international stages.