2008 General Election Opponents and Results
Barack Obama ran against Republican nominee John McCain in the 2008 presidential general election. Obama won 365 electoral votes to McCain's 173, carrying states such as Florida, Ohio, and Virginia. The race was shaped by the financial crisis, with major firms like Lehman Brothers filing for bankruptcy in September 2008. Data on the final popular vote share is available from the Federal Election Commission via FEC official records.
McCain selected Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. The Obama campaign focused on change, healthcare reform, and the economic downturn. The Democratic ticket outspent the Republican ticket in total fundraising, according to OpenSecrets, which tracks campaign finance data at OpenSecrets campaign finance data. Obama's coalition included younger voters and increased turnout in key swing states.
Primary Opponents and Key Moments
In the Democratic primary, Obama faced Senator Hillary Clinton, former Senator John Edwards, and others. Clinton won early contests in Iowa and New Hampshire, but Obama gained momentum after victories in South Carolina and a series of Super Tuesday states. The race focused on experience, healthcare, and the Iraq War.
On the Republican side, McCain competed against former Governor Mitt Romney, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, and Senator Mike Huckabee. McCain secured the nomination after key wins in Florida and other states. The primaries highlighted differences on tax policy, regulation, and the financial bailout. Detailed delegate counts and primary dates are tracked by the Associated Press at AP News election coverage.
Key Issues and Campaign Finance
The financial crisis dominated the final months, with Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson and Federal Reserve Chair Ben Bernanke pushing the Troubled Asset Relief Program. Obama and McCain differed on the scope of government intervention and oversight. The crisis affected companies from banks to automakers and shaped voter priorities.
Campaign finance records show Obama raised and spent more than any previous candidate at that time. The FEC and OpenSecrets provide detailed breakdowns of contributions from individuals, PACs, and parties. The 2008 cycle also saw increased use of digital fundraising and social media, setting a precedent for future races. For the latest campaign finance rules and disclosures, see the SEC investor and disclosure resources.