Final answer:
The 1996 presidential campaign was unique for its focus on the economy, the presence of a successful third-party candidate, and the re-election of a Democrat.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 1996 presidential campaign was unique in modern politics for several reasons.
- It focused on the economy rather than candidates' character. Unlike previous campaigns that heavily emphasized the personal qualities and character of the candidates, the 1996 campaign placed a primary focus on economic issues.
- It featured a relatively successful third-party candidate. Ross Perot, running as the Reform Party candidate, received a significant amount of support and attention during the campaign, highlighting the dissatisfaction with the two major parties.
- It ultimately did not result in a Democrat defeating a Republican president. Incumbent President Bill Clinton, a Democrat, defeated Republican candidate Bob Dole to secure his re-election.