I’ll point out that for 1976, it was around sixteen Democrats in the primary period. With all the Watergate hype, everyone felt we needed some ethical ‘answer’ as President. So the ethical period went into effect. Four years later, Jimmy’s lack of leadership and executive skills were apparent. He was not a guy suited for the job required. Nice enough guy...probably did know some things about farming. But he was way beyond his skill level for the job required.
Don’t forget that the RINOs of that era were dead against Reagan challenging Ford.
Carter is surely the last man that represents ethics, never mind morals.