Final answer:
John F. Kennedy won the 1960 presidential election, with his televised debate performances playing a key role in demonstrating his presidential image. His appearance contrasted with Richard Nixon's, which helped sway television viewers despite radio listeners having a neutral or positive view of Nixon's performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
John F. Kennedy won the 1960 presidential election, and his performance during the nationally televised debates was a significant factor in his victory. The impact of the first televised presidential debates was profound, as it highlighted the importance of media presence and public image in political campaigns.
Kennedy appeared poised and confident, contrasting with his opponent Richard Nixon, who suffered from bad optics due to a recent illness and refusal to wear makeup. This difference in appearance and demeanor may have influenced the perception of television viewers, making Kennedy appear more presidential. His telegenic style resonated with many Americans, who watched the debates on TV and saw a vibrant youthfulness that added to his appeal.
While Nixon was perceived better by those who listened to the debates on the radio, the visual component of television left an indelible mark on the public's perception. The impact of this dynamic demonstrates that how candidates are seen can sometimes be just as important as their policy positions or debate performance.