Kennedy face numerous challenges due to his age and Roman Catholic faith. However, through his charismatic personality and admirable character (evident in his bravery as a WWII veteran), he was able to win on one of the closest elections in history. Kennedy ran against Republican Richard Nixon who had 8 years of experience as Vice President under his wing. Kennedy used Nixon’s age to is advantage by advocating himself as America’s much needed younger, fresher president. In a catchy advertisement, Kennedy appeals to the nation's need for a president willing to try new things. The ad details Kennedy as a fair man for the people and underscores his character. While Nixon emphasized improved foreign relations, Kennedy pushed to revive key elements of the Roosevelt coalition ( focus on human rights). The ad includes African Americans and constantly repeats the phrase “its up to you” : campaign rhetoric which propagates individuals to go out and vote. Kennedy’s ad addresses a minority race which is significant as African Americans were adamant upon increased civil rights during the 1960’s and acknowledging their plight in his ad was crucial in garnering minority …show more content…
Both presidents used several campaigning strategies to appeal to the public vote. One such campaign propaganda was “Daisy”, a controversial advertisement which aired only once before it was pulled for its violent depiction of a young girl being blown to ashes. The purpose of the ad was to depict the prospect of nuclear war and discourage the public from voting for Goldwater (who intended to incite a nuclear war). During a time where the war in Vietnam was steadily escalating, Johnson used this opportunity to discretely paint Goldwater as a vicious warmonger. The ad was effective in garnering support for the Democratic party as the image of a little girl falling victim to an atomic bomb was enough to frighten the public. The ad appealed to a vulnerable public by associating Johnson with peace for America. Strategically propagating America to “think of the children,” Johnson's campaign message allowed Johnson to secure 61 percent of the popular vote in 1964’s