When questioned about his choice of topic, Wallace explained that he was drawn to this specific election due to its significance in American history and its relevance to the current political landscape. “It was a fabulous election,” he stated, emphasizing the compelling nature of the two main candidates, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.
Contrary to popular perception, Wallace argued that the election may have been stolen by Kennedy. He highlighted the competitive nature of the race, with both candidates being young and politically ambitious. Kennedy, in particular, employed various strategies that were considered cutting-edge at the time. From personal pollsters to a private plane named Caroline, which was gifted to him by his wealthy father, Kennedy utilized sophisticated methods to campaign across the country.
One intriguing aspect of the election was Kennedy’s running mate, Lyndon Johnson. Wallace shared the twist of how Johnson outsmarted Kennedy by securing the vice-presidential running mate position at the Democratic Convention, despite Kennedy’s reluctance.
The turning point of the race came during the first debate between Kennedy and Nixon. Wallace attributed Nixon’s loss to a series of mistakes made during the televised debate. He argued that the debate heavily influenced the outcome of the election and ultimately tilted the scales in Kennedy’s favor.
However, what makes this story even more compelling is the aftermath of the election. Wallace revealed that despite suspicions of election fraud, Nixon made the decision not to contest the results. At a time when the Cold War was at its peak, Nixon believed that challenging the election in court would not only paralyze the country but also tarnish America’s reputation on the global stage. This act, according to Wallace, exemplified Nixon’s commitment to the democratic process and his prioritization of the nation’s well-being over personal ambition.
In stark contrast, Wallace drew a parallel to the events of January 6, 2021, when former President Donald Trump held a rally and urged his supporters to “fight like hell.” Wallace’s reference to the storming of the Capitol and the subsequent lack of acknowledgment from Trump regarding Vice President Mike Pence’s safety highlighted the stark difference in behavior between Nixon and Trump.
Wallace concluded the interview by emphasizing the significance of the 1960 election and its relevance to current American politics. He contended that the election had a profound impact on shaping the country and its democratic values. The book, “Countdown 1960,” offers an in-depth exploration of this pivotal moment in history and underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles.
Fans of political history and those interested in the dynamic interplay between personalities and politics will find “Countdown 1960” an engaging and enlightening read. For those who weren’t familiar with the complexities and intrigues surrounding the 1960 election, Chris Wallace‘s book is a captivating dive into a transformative period in American politics.
