The first nationally televised presidential debate in 1960, carried simultaneously live on radio, was a gentlemanly contest between then U.S. Senator John F. Kennedy of Massachusetts, and Vice President Richard M. Nixon of California. No live audience, no hoopla or spin-rooms afterwards. Analysis was primarily done over the following days, critiquing performance and fact-checking. On television, Nixon appeared to have a five-o’clock shadow, perspired heavily and looked uncomfortable in comparison to Kennedy’s ready smile and wit. TV viewers most typically felt Kennedy won the debate, while those who listened on radio favored Nixon’s more detailed and thoughtful replies and gave him the winning nod.

We have come a long way since that time and those days, not all for the good. The benefits of incumbency, since J.F.K.’s upset victory have remained potent. If not assassinated, Kennedy was looking good for re-election. Vice President Lyndon Baines Johnson ascended into the presidency and beat back Arizona Senator Barry Goldwater in 1964. They had no debate. Largely due to his flagging popularity and health challenges, LBJ declined to seek a second full term in 1968, leaving that race to his V.P., Hubert Humphrey. Richard Nixon beat Humphrey in 1968 (no debates), and then Senator George McGovern in 1972. In 1980, incumbent President Jimmy Carter lost in a landslide, on the back of an inflation crippled economy, energy shortages, the Iranian hostage crisis and some incredibly memorable lines and debate performances by challenger, former California governor Ronald Reagan.

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Bill Crane is a syndicated columnist based in Decatur. He has worked in politics for Democrats and Republicans, respects the process and will try and give you some things to think about. Your thoughts and responses to his opinions are also welcome, bill.csicrane@gmail.com.

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