Watch the 1960 debate between Nixon and Kennedy (that first televised one) in its entirety. Kennedy’s opening remarks are an excellent encapsulation of his powerful idealism in action and frequently reminiscent of arguments that dominate the election cycles even now. (“I think we can do better. I don’t want to let the talents of any American go to waste.” and “I don’t believe in big government, but I do believe in effective government action. And I think that’s the only way that United States is going to maintain its freedom, the only way that we’re going to move ahead.”)
Via The Guardian.
Kennedy’s insistence on personal responsibility and on the country being better… I just can’t imagine the response it would get today. Which makes me sad for today.
