Which presidential candidate won the 1980 election?

Ronald Reagan won the 1980 presidential election, which marked a significant shift in American politics. His victory was characterized by a combination of factors, including a backdrop of economic troubles, rising inflation, and a perception of weakness in foreign policy under the administration of incumbent President Jimmy Carter.

Reagan, a former governor of California and a prominent figure in the conservative movement, campaigned on a platform that emphasized tax cuts, reducing government intervention in the economy, and a strong stance against the Soviet Union, famously dubbing it the "evil empire." His optimistic vision for America resonated with voters, leading to a decisive win. In the electoral college, Reagan secured a landslide victory with 489 electoral votes to Carter's 49, showcasing a significant endorsement of his ideas and approach to governance.

This election ultimately set the stage for a new era in U.S. politics, reinforcing conservative values and leading to Reagan's widespread influence in shaping the Republican Party in the years that followed.