Lincoln had to face a Democratic candidate and he had to face a brief challenge for the nomination of his own party. This challenge cam from the Radical Republicans, those who were so angered when Lincoln pocket vetoed and Wade- Davis Bill, that they supported John C. Fremont for the nomination. Fremont eventually withdraw. In attempt to broaden Lincoln's appeal, the republicans temporarily changed their name to the union party. The democrats nominated General George McClellan as their candidate. McClellan was too happy to oppose Lincoln, who had twice fired him. The General was still loved by his soldiers and Lincoln feared that McClellan would find wide support among the troops. McClellan promised that if elected, would negotiated an end to the war. Sensing that victory was near, Northerners became less willing to support a negotiated settlement. In November, with the help of ballots cast by union soldiers, Lincoln won an easy victory, garnering 212 out of a possible 233 electoral votes.
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