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Kennedy-Nixon presidential debates in 1960 were the first to be broadcast on television. The significance of the Kennedy-Nixon debates had less to do with evolutions in technology, and more with how television changed the nature of politics in the United States. In particular, television influenced the way American citizens perceived the presidential candidates. What I found most interesting about the Kennedy-Nixon debates is that the broadcast marked the first time that Americans become more concerned with the image of the candidates rather than the content of their messages.
Kennedy was widely considered the victor in the debates not because of what he said but because of the way he looked on television especially compared with his opponent (Morton 2005). Nixon looked nervous and also agreed to use a makeup called "LazyShave," which made his face appear blotchy (Morton 2005). Kennedy, on the other hand, looked younger, slimmer, and tan. He also agreed to use makeup like television actors would. His more youthful appearance helped win over many voters who saw Kennedy as a more attractive leader than Nixon. After reading about the Nixon-Kennedy debates, I thought it was remarkable that color television had an immediate impact on politics. I find it interesting that human beings react so strongly to a person's physical appearance and wonder how many other important decisions are based on looks. Even if Nixon did eventually get elected to the office of the presidency, this debate made him lose the 1960 election.
The Kennedy-Nixon debates were only the first of many that would be televised. Using television as a way to gain votes has been a key political tactic since the Kennedy-Nixon debates. As Morton (2005) points out, Al Gore sighed while George W. Bush was speaking, which made him come across as being pompous. I found it fascinating that candidates need to be almost like television stars in order for them to become elected. Politics is not only about how intelligent a candidate is or even their credentials. American voters appreciate style as much as substance.
References
Morton, B. (2005). "Kennedy-Nixon debate changed politics for good." CNN.com. Retrieved July 18, 2009 from http://www.cnn.com/2005/POLITICS/09/26/kennedy.nixon/index.html
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