Pierce’s opponent was Mexican–American War hero Winfield Scott, who had served in a leading capacity in the United States Army for many years. Known as “Old Fuss and Feathers,” Scott presented a formidable challenge and contrast to Pierce, particularly given the charges made against Pierce about his fainting spells while in battle. However, the Whig Party was divided on the slavery question and that appeared to hurt Scott’s chances. Scott’s antislavery position cost him votes with many Southern Whigs. Pierce ended up winning in an electoral vote landslide 254 to 42.