On September 26, 1960, Richard M. Nixon, the 37th President, faced off against John F. Kennedy, the charismatic 35th President, in a historic televised debate that changed American politics. Nixon's health struggles and appearance contrasted sharply with Kennedy's poised demeanor, demonstrating the power of television in shaping public perception. The two leaders discussed the implications of Kennedy's Catholicism and the razor-thin electoral margin, showcasing how their performances set the stage for a new era in political campaigning.