 In 1962, John B. Connally, a moderate Democrat, was elected Governor of Texas.The next year, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on a trip to Dallas created further impetus to bridge the gap between liberal and moderate Texas Democrats; Party unity was solidified with Johnson's ensuing Presidency and the drubbing of Barry Goldwater in the 1964 presidential election.In 1964, Johnson carried his home state with ease, but liberal forces in Texas were in decline.