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Seward was initially seen as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination from "summary" of Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Seward's prominence seemed assured at the outset of the Republican National Convention in Chicago in May 1860. As a seasoned politician with vast experience, including serving as a senator and governor, he was well-known and respected within the party. Moreover, his anti-slavery stance and reputation as a skilled orator further solidified his position as the favorite to secure the nomination. Many believed that his long record of public service and unwavering commitment to Republican principles made him the most qualified candidate to represent the party in the upcoming presidential election. Despite his initial momentum, Seward faced formidable competition from other candidates, most notably Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln's humble beginnings and rise from obscurity appealed to many delegates who saw him as a fresh face untainted by the political establishment. Additionally, Lincoln's moderate views on slavery resonated with a broader swath of Republicans who sought a candidate capable of uniting the party and appealing to a wider audience in the general election. As the convention progressed, it became increasingly clear that Seward's path to the nomination was not as straightforward as anticipated. The turning point came during the early rounds of voting when it became apparent that Seward lacked the necessary support to secure the nomination outright. Delegates began to shift their allegiance to other candidates, including Lincoln, who emerged as a viable alternative to Seward. Despite Seward's continued popularity and backing from key party leaders, Lincoln's growing momentum and strategic alliances within the convention ultimately tipped the scales in his favor. In a surprising twist of fate, Lincoln secured the Republican nomination on the third ballot, relegating Seward to the role of runner-up. The outcome of the convention was a stunning upset for Seward and his supporters, who had confidently predicted his victory based on his status as the frontrunner. The unexpected turn of events not only reshaped the Republican Party's trajectory but also paved the way for Lincoln to become one of the most revered presidents in American history. As Seward grappled with the realization that his presidential ambitions had been thwarted, Lincoln embarked on a historic journey that would redefine the nation and secure his place in the annals of American politics.
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