The Kennedy-Nixon presidential debate of 1960 awakened Americans to the power of a good political hairdo (and a bad five-o’clock shadow). Those who listened to the debate on the radio thought Nixon performed better. But Kennedy’s suave good looks and smooth coiffure won over the TV watchers.
A good head of hair is an important part in becoming a successful politician, though it can be expensive. John Edwards spent $400 for his haircuts during his presidential bid. Hillary Clinton once spent $2,500 for a style to go with her famous pantsuits.
The current presidential primary has many wondering if Romney’s hair can help him coast to victory. Can Callista Gingrich channel the power of her unmovable helmet of hair to help her husband? Will Obama’s graying buzzcut give him an air of gravitas, or just make him look haggard?
A good head of hair can be a source of unspoken political power. Here is our top-ten list of political up-dos, unkempt coiffs, and Ken-doll shellac jobs.
