Kennedy-Nixon DebateKennedy-Nixon Debate

John F. Kennedy Richard M. Nixon

Age 43 47

Party Democrat Republican

Religion Catholic Quaker

Home State Massachusetts California

Experience Senate Senate, Vice President

The Great DebatesThe Great DebatesClick on photo

The Great DebateThe Great Debate

Public ReactionPublic Reaction “We thought Nixon was

clobbered.” "Debate Score: Kennedy

up, Nixon down.” “Fatigue, a lack of make

up, and heavy perspiration that made him appear nervous and almost sinister.”

Looking at Nixon, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley reportedly said, "My God, they've embalmed him before he even died."

Chicago, September 26, 1960Chicago, September 26, 1960

First time in American history that presidential candidates debated face-to-face on television.

Debate #1 viewed by 70 million people.

Series of 4 debates, viewer ship declined with each successive meeting.

Debate 3Debate 3

The Truman factorThe Truman factor Nixon staffers accuse

Kennedy of breaking the rules by taking notes.

Truman: “Anyone who voted for Nixon should Go to hell.”

Kennedy responded that he might have preferred other language, but that no one was going to change 73-year old Truman.

President should set a good example of dignity and decency for children.

Nixon refused to debate in 1968 and 1972.

Kennedy-Nixon DebatesKennedy Nixon

Opening Statement 1. Get America moving again

2. Agrees with JFK

Experience 3. No certain road to white house

4. President should not say who gave advice

Leadership 5. Democrats FDR, Truman, & Wilson

6. No Comment

Farm Surplus 7. More government aid and control

8. Eliminate subsidies