Kennedy v. Nixon

Kennedy Announces

Jan 2, 1960

Senator John F. Kennedy formally announces his candidacy for President.

New Hampshire

Mar 8, 1960

Kennedy wins the New Hampshire primary, demonstrating his appeal.

Wisconsin

Apr 5, 1960

Kennedy wins the Wisconsin primary, a critical victory over Senator Hubert Humphrey.

Democratic Nomination

Jul 13, 1960

Kennedy is nominated as the Democratic candidate for President at the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles. He selects Lyndon B. Johnson as his running mate.

Republican Nomination

Jul 28, 1960

Vice President Richard Nixon is nominated as the Republican candidate for President at the Republican National Convention in Chicago. He selects Henry Cabot Lodge Jr. as his running mate.

Debate

Sep 26, 1960

The first-ever televised presidential debate is held between Kennedy and Nixon. Kennedy’s performance is widely regarded as a turning point in the campaign.

Additional Debates

Oct 7, 1960

Subsequent televised debates are held, further boosting Kennedy’s visibility and appeal.

Election Day

Nov 7, 1960

Kennedy narrowly defeats Nixon in one of the closest elections in U.S. history, winning 303 electoral votes to Nixon’s 219.