[2] Factions within the party believed the Democrats had evolved past machine politics, meaning there was no need for continued existence of the Liberals.

Ultimately the view of party father David Dubinsky prevailed; the Liberals would endorse worthy Democrats and Republicans but maintain a separate structure.

Christenberry had also served as Vice Consul in Vladivostok and the Dominican Republic as well as the American representative at the inauguration of Paraguayan President Alfredo Stroessner.

Though Christenberry was praised by Democrats like Eleanor Roosevelt for his energy and knowledge of the issues, even traditionally Republican newspapers were not optimistic about his chances.

[17] At the start of his campaign, Christenberry attacked Mayor Wagner, saying he had "a record of indecision" and a "failure to face up to problems".

[21] Vito Battista, a Republican architect, ran on the third party "United Taxpayers" ticket in opposition to Mayor Wagner's policies on taxation and social services.