Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential campaign was his second attempt at the nation's highest office, officially commencing on June 2, 2011, with an announcement in Stratham, New Hampshire. Having been the runner-up in the 2008 Republican primaries, Romney entered the race with a focus on the U.S. economy, pledging to prioritize job creation. His journey through the primaries was arduous, culminating in his designation as the presumptive nominee in May
2012. The campaign then shifted its focus to the general election, where Romney faced incumbent President Barack Obama, ultimately concluding with his defeat on November 6, 2012.
The Path to Presumptive Nominee and Running Mate Selection
Romney's campaign for the Republican nomination involved navigating a crowded field of candidates and a series of competitive primary contests. He secured the presumptive nominee status with his victory in the Texas primary on May 29, 2012, which, with the inclusion of unpledged delegates, provided him with enough support to clinch the nomination. Further wins in California and other states on June 5 solidified his position, giving him an absolute certainty of the nomination through pledged delegates alone. The Republican National Committee officially declared him the party's presumptive nominee on April 25, 2012, after his main rivals, Rick Santorum and Newt Gingrich, suspended their campaigns.
On August 11, 2012, in Norfolk, Virginia, Romney announced his selection of Paul Ryan, the U.S. Representative for Wisconsin's 1st congressional district, as his running mate. This decision made Ryan the first vice-presidential candidate from Wisconsin for a major party. The announcement was made through the campaign's mobile app,
