Since the first televised debate in 1960, each presidential debate has had moments that stay in the public’s mind. When President Biden and former President Donald Trump take the stage on Thursday, they’ll both be keen to avoid mistakes or deliver memorable one-liners.
These debate moments — from blunders to zingers — often become part of history. In the first televised debate in 1960, Senator John F. Kennedy appeared confident, while Vice President Richard Nixon looked sweaty and sickly after an illness. In 1992, President George H.W. Bush was caught checking his watch. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan cleverly addressed concerns about his age with a joke, a move still relevant today.
“There you go again”: Reagan vs. Carter in 1980
In the final debate of 1980, a week before Election Day, Governor Ronald Reagan faced President Jimmy Carter. When Carter criticized Reagan’s stance on Medicare, Reagan simply replied, “There you go again.” This calm response defused Carter’s lengthy attack. Reagan used this line again in the 1984 debate against Walter Mondale.
Coldness and an insult: Dukakis vs. Bush Sr., and their running mates, in 1988
The 1988 debates had two standout moments. When requested if he would approve of the death punishment if his wife was raped and murdered, Governor Michael Dukakis responded with a cold “no” as well as an analytical clarification, making him appear separated. During the vice-presidential debate, Senator Lloyd Bentsen infamously told Senator Dan Quayle, “Senator, you’re no Jack Kennedy,” which stunned Quayle and earned Bentsen applause.
Gore confronts Bush Jr. in 2000.
during a city hall discussion, Vice President Al Gore attempted to intimidate Governor George W. Bush by approaching him whereas he answered a question. Bush replied with a puzzled expression and a disdainful nod, causing those present to laugh. Gore’s attempt to appear difficult backfired, making him appear too aggressive.
A harassment vibe: Trump versus Clinton in 2016
Donald Trump forceful style and personal attacks revolutionized debate etiquette in 2016. One lasting moment was when he stood behind Hillary Clinton as she addressed the audience, causing him appear aggressive to many.The height difference between Clinton (5’4″) and Donald Trump (6’3″) exacerbated the impact. Clinton later acknowledged in her autobiography that she wanted she had been more vocal during the debates.
The debate of delays: Biden vs. Trump in 2020
The first discussion between Biden and Trump in 2020 was disorganized, with both candidates repeatedly halting each other.without rules to turn off mics, the debate got an endless back-and-forth. At one point, an annoyed Biden requested Trump, “Will your shut up, man?” The moderator Christopher He struggled to keep control, leading to in one of the least professional and useful discussions in recent memory.
As both men prepare for their upcoming debate, previous events demonstrate how a single speak or error may make a lasting impression.