02-04-2025 - On This Day in Insane History

On February 4, 1789, an extraordinary presidential selection unfolded that would reshape the nascent United States. George Washington was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States by the Electoral College—a feat so remarkable it has never been repeated in American history. Not a single dissenting vote was cast, which in today's fractious political landscape seems about as likely as a unicorn winning a marathon.

The voting process was dramatically different from modern elections. Electors cast two votes for president, with the runner-up becoming vice president. Washington, already a legendary figure from the Revolutionary War, was the unanimous choice of the 69 electors representing the 10 existing states. His selection wasn't just a political decision but a collective acknowledgment of his leadership and integrity.

What makes this electoral moment truly unique is the absolute consensus. In an era of deep regional differences and competing political philosophies, every single elector recognized Washington as the singular leader capable of guiding the fragile new republic. He would go on to serve two terms, establishing critical precedents for presidential power and peaceful transition of leadership that would become foundational to American democracy.

Washington's unanimous election remains a singular moment in American electoral history—a testament to his extraordinary character and the nascent nation's collective vision.