The first televised presidential debate between Richard M. Nixon, the incumbent Vice President, and John F. Kennedy, a Senator from Massachusetts, occurred in Chicago. This debate was organized as part of the 1960 presidential election campaign, a period marked by a shifting political landscape and heightened public interest in political engagement. Each candidate presented their views on pressing issues such as communism, civil rights, and the economy, with a particular focus on how they would navigate the challenges of the Cold War.

In preparation for this landmark event, Kennedy emphasized the importance of television as a medium for direct communication with voters. He approached the debate with confidence, understanding the significance of his visual presentation and demeanor. In contrast, Nixon, who had recently recovered from an illness, appeared less vigorous. The debates were broadcast live, allowing viewers to evaluate the candidates not only by their words but also by their appearance and charisma.

The initial debate set a precedent for how future elections would be conducted and presented. In a time when radio had dominated political discourse, the emergence of television changed the dynamics of political communication, ushering in a new era of media-focused campaigns that prioritized image alongside policy.