Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Rutherford B. Hayes wins disputed 1876 election votes

3/2/2026

26 5

Summary

Story summary

On March 2, 1877, the Electoral Commission awarded twenty disputed electoral votes to Rutherford B. Hayes, confirming his victory in the contentious 1876 presidential election against Democrat Samuel J. Tilden. Tilden had secured 184 electoral votes, just one short of victory, while Hayes received 165, leading to a significant political resolution in U.S. history.

1 of 1

Story summary

On March 2, 1877, the Electoral Commission awarded twenty disputed electoral votes to Rutherford B. Hayes, confirming his victory in the contentious 1876 presidential election against Democrat Samuel J. Tilden. Tilden had secured 184 electoral votes, just one short of victory, while Hayes received 165, leading to a significant political resolution in U.S. history.