John Hospers
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John Hospers (June 9, 1918 - ), was the first Libertarian to run for the office of President of the United States in 1972. A friend of Ayn Rand since 1971, he published his treatise on Libertarian philosophy entitled "Libertarianism: A Political Philosophy for Tomorrow" in 1971, and secured the party nomination for president, along with Theodora "Tonie" Nathan in 1972. On the ballot in only two states and garnering just over 3000 popular votes, the pair made history when elector Roger MacBride of Minnesota cast his vote for the ticket of Hospers and Nathan, rather than the Republican candidate and eventual winner, Richard Nixon. This made Ms. Nathan the first woman in US history to receive an electoral vote, preceding Geraldine Ferrarro by a dozen years.
After his presidential bid, Hospers returned to teach philosophy at the University of Southern California, where he taught until his retirement in 1988.
Election results
| Year | Office | Vote total | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1972 | President of the United States | 3,676 | 0.00% |
| Preceded by: - |
Libertarian Party Presidential candidate 1972 (lost) |
Succeeded by: Roger MacBride |