Before leaving office.
Lincoln was first elected in 1860 and was assassinated in his second term.
FDR was re-elected in 1940 and died just after starting his fourth term.
They had to win an election in a year divisible by 20.
(Not just a zero year. 1990, for example, wouldn't cut it. But 1980 and 2000 in principle would. And Reagan, the 1980 victor, was almost assassinated, while Bush, victor in 2000, looks good to finish his term.)
psst, Rubi, every Presidential election year IS divisible by 20, there was no PE in 1990, or any other odd numbered decade.
also, pretty sure FDR was starting his THIRD term in '45 when he died and Harry Truman took over.
I'm pretty sure we lost Ronnie for a few minutes, too, so it still stands.
as for why W hasn't bit it, yet? too many people praying CHENEY NEVER MAKES IT TO OFFICE!!!:frown1:
(besides, it's easier to play puppet master from the sidelines!:wink