In 1952, a dog changed the course of a presidential election. Today, on September 23, we not only mark this occasion, we commemorate all of America’s greatest political pooches by celebrating National Dogs in Politics Day.
On September 23, 1952, Richard Nixon used television (still in its infancy) to speak directly to 60 million viewers — the largest audience at the time. Dubbed the “Checkers Speech,” Nixon refuted charges that he had abused campaign contributions. By alluding to his children and the family dog, a black and white cocker spaniel named Checkers; Nixon touched a public nerve, making him seem more personable. Nixon was able to gain the public’s trust, downplay the charges and stay on the Eisenhower ticket as vice president.
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The speech revolutionized how politicians connect with voters, helped usher in a new era in political speech-making and showed how television could be effectively used in politics. And it was Checkers who started it all, reminding us that dogs have lived in the White House just as long as presidents. Let’s remember those loyal canines on National Dogs in Politics Day.