Yes, of course, physical appearance matters. How can it not??
Skin color–no — (except for juandice like look.) Physically, we
can partially determine if the person is healthy and able to lead
the country. and yes, if they are attactive., all the better, after all,
they are our best foot forward to the world.

Anyone who would judge a candidate would be shallow. People just familiarize themselves with the candidates policies and qualifications. People don’t notice big ears,, white hair, sex, and skin color. Not in America, the land of equal opportunity!!!!!

It’s not so much their “looks”, its way they carry themselves. If they carry themselves with dignity and confidence, and look you right in the eye when speaking to you, that’s what is important……not how they comb their hair, whether they are tall or short, or the shade of their complexion.

Yes they matter. Everytime I see McSame, it makes me realize how much better my husband looks, and he is 72 years of age. McCain is an old man that needs to RETIRE.

Looks mean a lot Jack. That’s why you and I are never going to be president.

Actually no. Although I am concerned about that left jaw of McCain’s. It does look like it can take a punch. And Obama’s ears look like the man’s about to take flight. Seriously though, looks do not matter. I am more concerned about the issues of which neither are willing to address truthfully and/or sincerely.

Not at all, unless you’re old, bald and stupid.

Whether he is short, tall, fat, thin, handsome or not, makes no difference to me. The appearances that do include a sneer like when McCain thinks he said a good thing or an open smile when Obama does. When McCain does that sneerly smile, he reminds me of a cruel German during WW2 when he physically injured a prisoner.

If it did half the presidents ever elected would not have been commander in chief. All I am interested is what they are going to do for me.

For all of the right and wrong reasons, absolutely. The President serves as the physical representation of all Americans, especially in the eyes of non-Americans. This has become even more important in the age of 24 hours news channels, television, and the internet. Unfortunately, two of of the country’s greatest presidents, Lincoln and FDR, may not have been elected if they were running today due to some of their physical ailments and appearances.

None. It’s always been brains that matter most. However, personally speaking, John McCain is starting to resemble a very old snapping turtle. It’s a bit of a turn off.

Jack
Only to idiots !

Only if they are mean and narrow minded, in addition to being old and ugly.

Thanks

well when you look as old as McBush–yes its a problem..He looks like he should be in a home somewhere rocking

Most people will say it means nothing to them but subconsciously people make judgments based on appearance all the time,that are more likely than not unjustified.

How much does a candidate’s physical appearance matter to you?

I don’t hink looks matter that much to me as the appearance of being able to do the job.

John McCain shuffles from one event to the next while Barack Obama sprints.

I want someone who has the energy to do the job, not one that needs the naps!

Jenna
Roseville CA

If I have a choice between a young, healthy-looking candidate who sounds sane or an elderly one with a history of illness, memory lapses and a cranky temperment, I’ll take the one who looks like he could withstand the rigors of the office. Vote Obama.

Jack, looks are everything in the public spotlight. Just look at the 2004 Presidential election - we all knew deep down that Herman Munster just didn’t have it in him to be Commander-In-Cheif, no matter how much time his running mate spent in front of the mirror.

If he looks like a Republican aristocrat oblivious to the stress of the American middle class, his looks are “been down that road already.”

They should not, but they do. Look at McCain, balding and grey , pasty white face with an evil creepy smile. Obama shows a youthful face with a gleaming attractive smile.

I choose demeanor over looks. McCain’s angry demeanor concerns me.
I am also deeply offended by petty and untruthful criticism of one’s opponent. Handsome looks do not hurt, though.

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” In the voting booth, the only thing that will matter will be who is most qualified to get our country back on it’s feet.

Steve
Laguna Niguel, CA

Physical appearance does not matter much. Far more important are a candidate’s facial expressions, reactions to different situations, and his/her comfort “within his own skin”. Richard Nixon is an example of a president who was not comfortable with himself. Ronald Reagan is an example of one who was. I did not vote for either of them, because their positions on the issues are the most important consideration.

America cannot afford a plastered image to represent them. Obama has all the qualities. Looks, Brain and most especially HEART.Rose London

PS: love you Jack, please keep up the good and honest job.

Probably, although they shouldn’t. We can’t help but be influenced by certain things…whether someone looks professional, neat, clean, and fits a certain mindset we have of what they “should” look like. That’s why we need a more substantive coverage of the candidates so that we can overcome these preconceptions we might have.

Of course, all things being equal (or at least close), the better looking candidate usually has an edge!

Looks don’t mean a thing to me…I want to know if they know anything about the issues of the day, and the parties involved in them. Plus a knowledge of Geography would be nice!!

McCain thinks it does as he places Obama in the same political ad as Paris and Britney.
Obama thinks it does, as he alludes to not looking like the guys on our money.
As for me, I could care less about looks.. Would I be watching you, if I did??

Harry
Ky.

Hi, Jack

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. To me, it is what it is your heart and brain. A “beautiful looking” person could have a nasty attitude, and a not-so attractive person can have a great attitude. It is what comes from within that counts.

Only in so far as would rather vote for someone that isnt a suit but an actual human being. Other factors such as intellect, not that there are any of those running this time, honor and the nobler attributes of humanity, rather than the base, crass morons in office now.

I think it is more important how you carry that look . If you can carry what ever you look like with confidence people will see beyond your looks and hopefully find substance.

Yes…image is very important. When I see Obama I see a true charismatic leader that makes me want to stop, listen, and be patriotic. When I see McCain it’s like looking at a caretaker at a funeral home then I begin to fall asleep.

I think looks matter more than we care to admit. Not necessarily race, gender or ethnic background. But one of the better Democratic Nominees in my view, was Hubert Humphrey. He was not a good looking man and never became President. Likewise, JFK was voted in by many females because of his dashing good looks.

If looks matter, Obama is a shoe in. He’s young, good looking, has a nice smile, etc. Put obama and McCain side by side in a debate, and McCain is going to look like he definitely needs to be in the Old Soldiers home.

Looks don’t matter, although it’d be good if our leader doesn’t look like a monster. It’s all about eye contact , words chosen and tone of voice. That’s all we really have because we sure don’t know what they’re REALLY thinking!

Jack,
I think it matters alot. I want to vote for someone that will make it
thru a full term.

Most certainly a male candidate that has youth and good looks on his side ,has a certain advantage. But the apparent over-riding factor,is that the candidate is male. This was clear in this years Democratic Primary. Hillary was treated like a step-child ,by the media,and her opponents. Good looks didn’t help her at all,and I think that was because most people,including women,do not like women bosses. They can not be manipulated as easily, as men. Nor do they slide easily in to the role of being “one of the guys”. Women can flirt their way out of things with a male boss,but try doing that with a female boss! You’ll get nothing but wrath. This is especially true in the job force,in the educational field,etc….that is why most principals are usually hired from the ranks of fairly good-looking coaches. They are the epitome of the “Good oh boy!”image,and are usually very layed back in their mode of dealing with things. There is a kind of stigma,in American society,that high ranking individuals must be male. This is not true,of course. Women are just as work oriented as anyone,and just a capable of making big decisions. We have a long way to go in America,still. Obviously! But yeah, I think looks always played a big role. You don’t find many ugly people in high positions.

Looks matter, but more in Senate, House and governors races than for President. The Presidential race is more about personal chemistry, trust, percieved ability, attack ads, and for many, issues.

But there have been exceptions; JFK over Nixon in 1960 was in part about looks, perhaps because of the first televised debates. I suspect that this year it will not be about looks, but more about the other factors listed above,

JACK i would be happy 2 vote for you,you are not a hypocrite,or a capitalist full of greed.

As long as they have just one head and two eyes, the physical appearance is not the most important thing to me. It’s what’s inside that counts. But I will vote for the candidate whose body and mind are better than the other candidate.

Monty in El Paso, Texas

Yes, it matters a lot. Look at how John McCain appeared when he gave his speech on the night Obama clinched the nomination. He didn’t appear convincing at all while Obama did.

looking at this year, yes.

i don’t care if they have the face of an elephant seal.if they would just decriminalize marijuana.

Looks only matter when stupid people vote.

Do a candidates looks matter? Yes, as President this person represents me, the nation, and how we see ourselves…McCain looks like a weekling who will likely die while serving in office….not impressive on the world stage…Barack looks like a virile, powerful, intellegent man who is looking forward, ready to lead a world which is starting to look like him more and more. It’s time for the Rich White Man requirement to go away.

Warren Sanford
Sacramento, California

If I like how the candidate’s brain works, and his or her ability to communicate important ideas to us which help us think more instead of react, and which help us grow more mature as a country, then good looks is icing on the cake.

In this particular election physical appearance does seem to matter.
Otherwise I can’t think of any other reason why Obama should be ahead in the polls. If looks matter in an election for president of the United States, and it sure seems they do, then physical appearance is the one and only qualification that Obama has.

Now that depends. Right now you have two candidates that are pretty much worthless. In this case a tight pair of pants might mater to some.
Either way you will have no idea what is actually in those pants because you will never get that far as a voter.
One thing is for sure however. Voting for either of these candidates means someone is going to get screwed. And the worst part is that you won’t even get a kiss!!

Jack, I find it peculiar that in the last two weeks two known Republicans have been identified as committing murderous acts of terrorism on Americans.

Jim Adkisson opened fire on “Liberals” at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church.

Bruce Ivans mailed Democratic leaders Anthrax that horribly killed 5 Americans in an act of cowardice and intra-terrorism the like of which we’ve seen from extremists in other countries.

I this what we can expect from our GOP citizens when they become so enraged over politics and when things don’t go their way? Are some of them so close to madness and this type of heinous behavior that we should now consider them an extremist group?

Looks really should’t matter,but they do,I guess. Unfortunately, there are some people who look at Obama and see only a black man instead of a man with ideals and morals. Plus, I guess people don’t want their president to look like the hunchback of Notre Dame!

Like it not, we all make judgements about people everyday based on their appearance. Why should it be any different for our presidential candidates?

Yes because you can the eye’s are the windows of the soul and when I look into John McCain’s eyes I see a deadness and an evilness and that is exactly how he is running his campaign with no excitement and very negatively. And that evil grin certainly doesn’t help.

Alot, ugly presidents get less done becuase their in hiding their faces from the cameras in their office. So they have no choice but to work.

Jack,Yes the candidate physical appearance does matter to me .who want,s a president that is not appealing. Houston Texax

Well since neither one looks like the elephant man no I don’t think it matters.

Barack’s youth, energy, fitness, and even complexion all support his message of change, hope, and optimism. On the other hand, McCain is almost a caricature of traditional American politics, and it seems hard not to take his age and health into consideration when seeing his debates on HD TV. These differences may only be skin deep, but they seem to reinforce Barack’s positives, and McCain’s negatives.

-Jeremy
Fort Worth, TX

Jack
Looks don’t matter action is what we need.
Bill ,Farmville, VA

As far as a candidate’s looks go, it would help a lot if they were at least cute considering what they are doing now or probably will keep doing to the American taxpayers if elected…You get my drift?

Actually I overheard two teenage girls state they were going to vote for Obama because he is ‘hot’.

Personally, I think that man needs a cheeseburger but that’s not why I wouldn’t vote for him.

With how the vote went down in the primaries? Yes, to women, the way a guy looks matter. With men,it’s hard to say. that one Jack, you have to answer. If you are voting on your beliefs and standards, NO. It comes down which wins over the other. Women, in general tend to need a man to make all their decisions. Looks or Ideas. Better change or Trouble a coming bigger hole than one we are in now.

Sad as it is, the better looking candidate almost always wins.

Absolutely, although you, Jack might be too young to remember the Kennedy-Nixon debate, looks make a major difference.

The debate was simultaneously covered on TV and Radio. Most everyone that watched the debates thought Kennedy won while a large majority that listened to the Radio thought Nixon won.

Physical appearance played a major role then as it will now.

If I wasn’t concerned with physical appearance, I would still be wearing tie-dyed t-shirts, sandals, bell bottom jeans with long hair and a beard.

I have outgrown the old and am ready for something new.

People that want change will go with Obama while those happy with things the way they are will vote McCain.

healthy and clean cut plus a brain would be a plus. a brain is important because 90% of the people in our government can not think out side the box and only care bout themselves plus what they can gain for their small circle of people.

Jack

When anyone sees McCain on tv he is always steadied by the elbow when he walks down stairs or steps by his wife/nurse Cindy. McCain can claim to be fit, but from his looks, he appears to be unfit for the job as President. The rigors of the job of President will no doubt take it’s toll and I don’t think McCain will live through his first term if elected. Obama on the other hand, is slim and fit and works out. Nothing wrong with that. We need to get back to a nation of fit people and having a President who exercises only sets a good example! If the President can find time in his busy schedule to exercise so can anyone else!!

Physical appearance matters a great deal. If I don’t like a candidate’s looks or what he says I tend to turn off the television.

They say beauty is only skin deep, but ugly goes clear to the bone.

Are people really that shallow Jack? How stupid! Whatever happened to judging a candidate by the content of his or her character? Appearance means absolutely nothing to me. Although, I have to admit, If Gorgeous George Clooney ever runs for office, I’ll vote for him in a hot second…he’s so “perty.”

They are important to whatever extent they reveal character. Does a candidate look trustworthy? Inspire confidence? But usually it just comes down to who is taller. Eisenhower, Eisenhower,Kennedy, LBJ, Nixon, Nixon, (can’t explain Ford/Carter), Reagan, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, and Clinton. The 2000 and 2004 elections don’t count due to nefarious circumstances.

Jack. Of course physical appearance is important not always at the councious level. SOme will vote for a canditate because he match their beauty criterion. Other will vote against the same candidate because they are jalous of his physical appearance. That is the reason whay an uggly girl will be pass by when carrying for a very heavy luggage and a beautiful one will get a lot of help. It is just the way we are, it is not even concious

Unfortunately Jack, they do. Thank goodness Barack is tall, dark and handsome and dreamy.

Obama 08

Jack-
It is human nature to make initial judgements of people based on their physical appearance…first impressions and all. That said, once we begin to know something about an individual, that initial impression is usually modified as other information about an individual is taken into consideration. Of course a candidate’s looks matter, but not in and of themselves. If someone looks unhealthy, they may, in fact, BE unhealthy. In the end though, the sum total of a person should be judged by a variety of that person’s “make up”, not just by their phsyical “components”.

Jack I would not care if he had an eye in the middle of his forehead just as long as he had intelligence, common sense and would lead us in the right direction. We voted for a good looking person the last two elections that didn’t have any these qualities and look where we are now.

A candidate’s physical appearance should not matter. It would influence me if he or she were grossly overweight and might not be in good health. I think we need more meat on the issues from Obama, not meat on his bones! Size, weight, color of skin should not matter but integrity does matter with me. Still trying to like the man!!!!
Hillary fan but a good solid Democrat

Yes, unfortunately, just like it is in the TV news business. You should check out those bimbos over at Fox.

Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX

It’s posts like these, coupled with the fact that we elected Bush for a 2nd term in office, that makes me feel like at least 48% of my fellow Americans are absolutely stupid. And I do mean sub 80 IQ stupid.

I’m more interested in what’s in Obama’s head than anything else. Secondly, I want him to have good character, and a good heart. That’s it.

Obama 08

Yes it does. We humans worship symbols because subconcious is more powerful than our concious. Our instincts are more powerful than our logic and reasoning. That is why subliminal messages works more powerfully than boring sermons.

McCain is an old white man and a symbol of “Status Quo”. Obama is a half-black young man who is a symbol of “Change” and “Hope”.

Who cares should be the answer, but that’s not the case. People should be required to take an IQ test to vote.

Hey Jack Are Americans electing in a Beauty Contest or for the leader of their great country? Sounds like he is in great shape, maybe more Americans should get a bit more exercise. Like get off the couch(tounge in cheek)

I use you as a benchmark Jack. Anything that looks like they went through hell and back will get my vote. So far, no one measures up.

I would like to believe that appearance does not matter; however, if it is important enough to be brought up in the media, chances are it is most likely important to someone, somewhere. I’m sure the McCain campaign is hoping it doesn’t matter as this is one topic that youth benefits despite that McCain was quite handsome 40 years ago.

Obviously not Jack….Bush got elected TWICE

Jack, It seems that their main objective these days is to discredit the other and not focus on the issues at hand. As long as these two guys continue to poke jabs at each other they may as well dress like clairabell and bozo for no more good than either of them are doing us! At least we could find some humor in their rhetoric.

Jack, looks do matter. If a candidate looks like cheaper gas, he becomes a stud. If he looks like more of the same, he looks like an old nag.

Looks should not matter, but for many folks it does. I for one would not my president to look like Alfred E. Newman, or Broom Hilda. By the same token the President shouldn’t look like Barbie or Ken, either. Better add Karl Rove to that “Not Look Like” list, too.

It does - we wouldn’t be human if it didn’t matter.

Having said that though:
I cannot conceive that we have the two ugliest men running for president.

Hi, Jack

Why have do I keep hearing the pundits say Barack Obama is playing the race card. It was the republicans and their associates who pushed the secret muslim idea, they leaked the photo of Obama in traditional african garb, they questioned his loyalty during the trip to the middle east, they even called a handshake with his a wife a “terrorist bump”.

So when Barack Obama say’s “they are going to tell you I am different…” he is right! That is exactly what the republicans have always done and Obama is just trying to defend himself.

Jack,

Any man who refers to Obama as a “beanpole” is totally jealous. He is amazingly hot!!! Any woman who does the same is just upset that she can’t have him!! There is no doubt that if elected, Obama will go down in history as the hottest president!!!

T. Renee
SC

Jack,
I suppose in some instances that looks can matter. Such as FDR a victim of Polio rarely appearing with his leg braces or sitting down. He felt that it would send the message that he was an invalid to the country. A message that the country did not need to hear because we were so busy with the Depression and WWII. But now days really no.

Jack: For me, none, but for such an advanced civilization as ours to be without a winning image is as serious a defect as being without memory. Therefore it is prudent for [any] presidental candidate to establish a winner’s image.

I’m a bean pole and it doesn’t suck to be me…skinny guys can make a suit look great..however some candidates need a suit to look great.

Obama is a suit-wearing (distant), wide-smiling (friendly, approachable) young (energetic, able to handle stress) man. McCain is more casual in his dress (approachable, regular guy), but that “grin” turns me off every time (ghoulish, predatory) and the scars are a constant subliminal reminder of his age and potential for health problems (pay very close attention to his VP pick!). Don’t let anybody fool you that appearance doesn’t matter.

Obviously looks don’t matter. The American populace elected Alfred E. Newman twice!

I don’t know Jack! Look at Bush he’s short, and bow legged, you tell me! At least Obama know’s how to comlete a full sentence.

Looks are the last tie-breaker. I will vote or the ugly one.

Jack, what is up with all these characterizations. First it was “He’s not black enough”, then it’s “He’s too black”, next it was “Is he patriotic” now it becomes “He’s too skinny to be President”. Show me the rules where a person have to look and act a certain way to be President. If there is no rules, stop worrying about how a person look and act.

I have heard all the things Obama and McCain say they will do, yet I have not heard one thing that will help the seniors or veterans. Just who is going to pay for all this??? As it is our great-grandchildren will be paying for this mess Bush has us in. Soon the country will be backrupt. The world hates us and can you blame them.????

hi,jack
yes… when i see obama, a true confidence ,a great attitude,leader,carry for ppl. sure

We are all supposed to be thin and healthy. Mr. Obama is showing himself as a leader on that front, too.

Sadly enough, the way a candidate’s looks do matter to some voters. Even the candidate’s family has to look good. One of my relatives votes on how a candidate looks regardless of his party, not his or her stand on the issues. She voted for Bush because, she thought Laura is cute. A lot of uninformed voters unfortunately vote the same way. I personally would vote for Frankenstein if I thought that he could and would keep his campaign promises to get us out of the mess that Bush has made.

George Bush looks like an idiot and the last 7-1/2 years helps make him look even more like an idiot. Maybe we should elect a president who looks and sounds smart like Obama.

Of course looks matter, not that people will admit it!!

I think McCain has been “botoxed” too much..he looks stiff and like he is really “trying” hard to make it through his speeches…his low energy level and drab speech delivery is enough to put anyone to sleep…

I want a “Commander In Thief” that I don’t mind looking at let alone listen to…that AIN’T McCain….

It matters as how much oil drilling matters for the price at the pump, none.

I just watched a report about Rumors on Obama Faith. Is this contry still the USA the gratest Nation? Why somebody’s faith become an issue for his electability? What’s wrong for being a muslim? there are many muslims who are far more better that those who accused him for being a muslim… just lern to know a good practicing muslim and you will be amazed that they are human being like you…who cares about the well being of this planet earth….

I sure would like to know if the President to be is healthy. Sounds like Senator Obama is. Now what is wrong with that? He should, by any streatch of the imagination, live to complete his term in office, be it four year or eight years.

Wasn’t Jack Kennedy tall, slim and healthy looking? People loved him. Of course we didn’t know how hurt he was due to his WWII injuries. They kept those things secret in those days. Just like no one knew that FDR was in a wheelchair. People like to vote for healthy looking candidates. They look good to us, and to the world. Obama is someone to aspire to for those of us who aren’t as slim and fit. (And probably will never be)

not that much jack, but i can only tell you Donatella Versace is inspired by the way Obama dresses!

I suspect the ‘looks’ that matter to many Americans have little to do with weight.

God, wake me up in November.

Barack Obama is the whole package. Good looks, good health, youthful, articulate, great stamina, substance, and a keen intelligence. And…he doesn’t take the weekends off to re-energize like some old jealous fogey we won’t mention. Nothing wrong with looking good, ain’t that right Jack?

Look matter if you are trying to find a way to publicly dislike a guy that is politically perfect for what you belive in. There ar a lot of closet issues this country has when it come to others and they would rather give you a stupid reason then tell the truth on why they will not.

Keep it real GOP, than I and MANY others could respect you more.

Looks are subjective. If a person has the intelligence, charisma, personality and passion to hod the office, that is what matters. Unfortunately, It may be more difficult for someone who resembles the back end of a horse to get a message across.

Only two image factors go into my personal decision-making process: The candidate should not be grossly overweight so that their health or their self-control is a reasonable concern. The candidate should not look like someone’s grandfather.

Scott D.
Philadelphia

Jack, One thing I do know is that the person who screwed this country
up is white and ugly like me.

Obama 08

Obama’s looks will probably matter to a lot of people. After all, didn’t “Sex in the City - the Movie” have a great many viewers? But really, with all the problems that we have in America, I cannot but hope the citizens will listen to what is being talked about. And see the leadership skills Obama has.

in someway yes,but judgement and internes values count the most

Why are we talking about this? Unless it’s a health concern, I just don’t understand the relevance?

Not really; as long as that dumb smirk we’ve been exposed to during the past seven plus years is gone. Bill Petaluma, CA

Of course I want the next president to be:
Energetic
Ambitious
Charming
Characteristic
Young
Vibrant
not someone, well you get my point.

It astounds me that the media finds this worthy of airtime and column inches over any of the serious issues facing our country. I mean, really? Really, Jack? You want to talk about whether or not the fat asses in the Midwest and South will refuse to vote for Obama because he’s too skinny? They aren’t going to vote for him anyway, and it is based on his looks, but not because he’s too skinny.

Jack, when I was in grade school, the teacher had pictures of all the former Presidents on the wall. Jack, so help me God , they were some of the ugliest and scary people i’v e ever seen. If looks matter,they would have never stood a chance.

Kenneth Chadbourn, N.C.

Is this what America has come to?

When Senator Obama made his many trips to Nevada early in the primary season, I had the privledge of meeting him personally and he spoke with my 17 year old son for twenty minutes. They shared a common theme of having a single parent houselhold, my son had struggled with this for 7 years , after speaking to Mr. Obama on that day it was like the world was lifted off his shoulders. He is heading to college in the Bay Area in the fall. I don’t care if he has three eyes is green, he was courteous kind and did not have to take the time to speak with this kid. The cameras were not rolling there as nothing political about it!!!

Senator Obama is handsome AND has brains. Kind of like you, Jack.

I don’t care what he looks like as long as we get a change in the White House. It looks to me like John McCain is going right down the line with Bush’s rules, including the dirty campaign. All we hear from John McCain is drill, drill, drill and did you notice that he only gives speeches to his friends? (My friends) I always thought I would vote for McCain but he sure did change my mind in a hurry after he got started on this campaign. He gets all riled up when he talks about off shore drilling, like that’s going to do something right away and save the day. If he gets in office we better move to Canada or another country ’cause this one is going down the tube.

Don Heerdt Hallwood, VA

Sure, if they look like a Republican they get my vote. If they look like a democrat, no chance.

I can’t even believe this is a newsworthy topic.

Of course, esp. a nasty old man like McCain, he isn’t drawiing much of an attraction. He is so mad, an angry old man he is.

well,you dont have to be able to walk,[FDR],and you dont have to be intelligent,[current wh occupant],and you dont have to be a ‘POPULAR’ actor,[ronald reagan],so, you dont have to be pretty,either.however i will make an exception in mccain’s case.he needs a little work.

Jack, it really doesn’t matter, so long as he or she has a modicum of intelligence, common sense and good judgment. Poor Obama is going to be labeled with yet another negative quality, in addition to being elitist, intelligent, witty and charismatic, that of being in good physical shape and health. Those Americans judging Obama negatively for having these qualities, may just as well vote for McCain who seems to, by default, to have all the endearing characteristics they desire plus he’ll give ‘em four more years of Bush style government.

My president should be slimmer than Wm. Howard Taft, be shorter than Abraham Lincoln, have more hair than Dwight Eisenhower, be taller than James Monroe and - most importantly - not wear a wig like George Washington did.

Personal appearance matters.

You better believe it matters. At the San Fran exploratorium, there is an exhibit that tests this hypothesis. A series of photos of past candidates chosen from select elections, you pick the one you thought won based solely on appearance. The correlation between winners chosen by appearance only and winners chosen in the actual elections was very high.

YES, it does Jack.

There is NOTHING wrong with a NICE LOOKING man as a PRESIDENT. As a matter of fact it’s a GOOD thing, added bonus if you ask me to have a BRILLIANT man as President AND have him LOOK GOOD too? Pleeeze….. bonus all the way.

I mean, honestly, if it was a matter of looks, Sen. Obama is a box of delicious box of assorted chocolates. AND John McCain is a store bought box of stale coconut macaroons.

Need I say more?

As I said before…Politics is show biz. Period.
Besides, we are a society where looks are exceedingly important.- probably much, much more important than they should be. Check out the movies, magazine racks and TV if you doubt that.

Im just ready to have a president that has common sense. Judging by the actions of our current president, common sense was apparently too much to ask for. Obama has is it, It also doesnt hurt that Obama is easy on the eyes.

Yes, physical appearance does matter. We want a President that looks good and looks like he takes care of himself. Obama does look good…a little skinny but he looks good but I’m still supporting McCain…bless his heart, he can’t help it that he’s old but he does still look good for his age and I wouldn’t be ashamed to say that’s my President! With Obama, all he has is his good looks and good ability to speak…

Give me brains first please ! We don’t want fluff and farce and flipflopping fools.
Janet C
Oregon

If HowdyDoody can become President anyone can.

Physical appearance plays a major role in determining the outcomes of elections. For example, Americans adored Kennedy; his tan skin and flowing hair gave him a huge advantage over an older, less attractive Richard Nixon. Also, to paraphrase the movie, “The American President”, would Franklin Roosevelt, who sat in a wheelchair, have been elected if every household in America had a television?

Just once I would like to see a hot First Lady Candidate…..

As much as I wish it didn’t, it does. We like to live around people who look like us. We like to hire and work with people who look like us. We like to worship with people who look like us. We like to vote for people who look like us. In the end - that is why Senator Obama will not win. And that’s a shame.

Not at all…Look at Bush …

If it look like Obama—no way.

Jack, the only thing important about a candidate to me is whether or not they can or will do their job. A congress chosen for looks alone will surely end up with a 9 per cent approval rating.

melissa, you. are correct.

Not at all…Look at Bush …

Looks are important, but give me intelligence and judgment every time. Why is it that americans consistently want to elect c- legacy students/admissions? Why the distain for those smarter than we are?

Guess looks does counts. McSame says Obama reminds him of Britney & Paris. Guess that makes Obama a 10.

When I was a kid, eveyone was making fun of Kennedy referring to Camelot. He was the golden boy.

When I was a teenager everyone was complaining about the reaction to Bobby Kennedy. He was also a rock star. He could bring out the kids. They were also goodlooking and smart. Does that mean they also like Britney & Paris.

Yes the public will be the judge McSame. Right now you’r a 3 with all your dirty tactics.

Yes, they matter, but neither one of these have any, but then they have no substance either

Sure wish JFK, JR. was still with us.

The sad fact is that yes looks do matter. There’s an unwritten requirement for President and it’s based on looks. Is it right? No way. But it is there.

The good thing is that looks are starting to fade as a requirement. People are a lot smarter now and they pay attention to the issues. Voting for President shouldn’t be “well this man has x-y-z characteristics so I’m going to vote for him”. Voting for President should be “the individual stands for a-b-c and I like those positions, so I’m going to vote for this person”. We’re not totally there yet, but we’re getting there.

Jack,
Looks do matter. Maybe that’s why McCain wears $500 shoes. He’s hoping we look at his feet instead of his face. His complexion is pasty and he looks unhealthy. He’d better pick a youthful looking running mate (ie Ken Doll Romney) . Also, I find McCains voice to be irritating. Obama, on the other hand, looks and speaks polished and presidential.
Obama 08!!

Yes, the appearance of our president is important.
Not necessary good looking , but well put groomed and confident.

Mostly he must look honest and trustworthy.
Hence the current president’s smug, full of himself attitude and very leery eyes.

Thank you

Is their appearance going to affect the price of gas, healthcare, enable me, an older college grad, finally become gainfully employed, provide some clothing, housing and food? If the answer is ‘no’ why are we talking about it? The basics are what matters to me. The rest is fluff and utter nonsense to get our minds off of what REALLY matters and that is SURVIVAL.

Of course. That’s why we don’t have a President Forbes today. If Lincoln had TV in his day, he never would have made it out of Illinois.

Experience and Substance matter most. Wow…Look at tall and akward Abe Lincoln and look what he accomplished, and don’t forget Franklin D. Rosevelt who was crippled… This country needs great leaders not models for clothing catalogs.

Of course they matter - to political cartoonists. Fortunately America has been blessed with some of the funniest-looking politicians the world has ever known. Abraham Lincon would never have won a beauth contest.

If America goes by “looks alone”, the over-weight pasty faced scary old guy wins hands down over the tall skinny handsome young African American.

Jack,

When fat people start voting along waist lines and not along party lines…well I think that was one of the signs of the apocalypse.

Brian
Moscow, ID

How pathetic that obese Americans won’t vote for someone thin, yet they will vote for someone white who clearly is becoming senile? Someone who is making one mistake after another verbally and is too old to be president of the US. Maybe it is more that he is black than skinny and people won’t admit it. Why can’t people look beyond it and see what a bright and capable young man Obama is………….

There was this guy named Abraham Lincoln…who some say was a beanpole.

Anyone who votes based on appearance should look in the mirror before they vote.

Wow! This is incredible. I hear so much complaint from overweight people about discrimination (airline passengers who are too selfish to share their seats, for example). Now it seems people who are not obese are going to be subject to discrimination because they are no longer the majority. Intelligence, not appearance, should be the concern as we choose a president. Obama will be a better president than Taft.

My dead grandpa looks better than McCain. The guy needs to be checking into a rest home, not the White House. What’s the deal with one of his cheeks big twice as big as the other? My opinion, by the way, is that looks don’t really matter.

This is stupid if a person will not vote for someone because they are too skinny for them than they shouldn’t be voting in the first place. This just goes to show how lazy people are when it comes to understanding the issues. They will make any insignificant issue THE ISSUE! If you don’t want to vote for him than come out and say it and don’t reduce yourself to such idiotic factors.

Hey Jack… Lets try honesty… If you ran a poll on the positions that Obama has presented an overwhelming majority of americans would agree.
Do you want to get out of Iraq?
Do you think Oil companies should get tax breaks?
Do you think the wealthiest Americans should pay less taxes than you?
Do you want to be independent of forign oil?
Do you think the President should be looked at as a World Leader?

So if Obama’s positions and abilities are in step with the majority the only reason he would not win election is because of “His Look”

I know it is too long to make it on the air… But it is time for the country to be lead by a person who represents the opinion of the people.

yes, the appearance matters, but not necessarily regarding physical characteristics. There’s a difference in dressing like and elite GQ man with designer sunglasses and looking stately and professionally well groomed. Obama does not dress like a president. He dresses like he is trying to show off his money. That kind of appearance turns me off.

Good looks don’t matter to me, Jack, but the appearance of good health does.

I look at John McCain and see a man who is too mentally and physically OLD at 72 to be president.

President of the United States is one of the most challenging jobs in the world–both mentally and physically.

There’s a reason that most of us retire or work part-time at 65, You don’t give a job like “US President” to someone like Senator McCain, someone who just doesn’t look like he’s up to the challenge.

Yes, I think looks do matter to an extent. You don’t have to be the most handsome, but you do need to look healthy. Obama looks healthy. Like he can take on the stresses that are associated with the job of President. of the United States. Which also makes a statement to the people of other countries. That America is strong and vibrant. McCain on the other hand, looks like he will have a heart attack when the going gets really tough. He represents old, antiquated ideas of the past.

YES WE CAN!!!!!

Not many of our past presidents have been lookers Jack. We need someone with solutions not just a pretty face. If Obama has that then he could look like road kill for all I care.

My dead grandpa looks better than McCain. The guy needs to be checking into a rest home, not the White House. What’s the deal with one of his cheeks being twice as big as the other? My opinion, by the way, is that looks don’t really matter.

Hey Jack,
It is not the look that matters but the change he brings to us. If the llok matters then Mccain lost it long time ago. I don’t think the look or the politics seem to work for Mccain.

None.
Brownwood, Texas

Looks matter for certain democrat voters this year.

Don’t worry about the next presidents weight…..

WORRY ABOUT AN OLD MAN RUNNING.

Many want to argue,”Of course, looks don’t matter,” however, if look deeper into it, subconsciously it does have an effect on our choices and beliefs. We may not be able to recognize it outwardly but little factors such as looks do play a huge role in our choices. Author Malcolm Gladwell recognizes this clearly in his book, “Blink: the Power of Thinking Without Thinking,” in which he describes the “Warren Harding effect.” The people elected former President Warren Harding because he was good-looking, and some might say even looked “like a president,” yet he turned out to be one of the worst presidents in our nation’s history.

These little prejudices do distract us from our intended way of thinking, however, I feel that if we make attempts to become aware of these little influences, we come one step closer to preventing another Warren Harding. We do not know what will result of the candidate who wins the most votes, however, increasing awareness can prevent a candidate from winning for the wrong reasons.

Did I just read somebody saying that Hilary has good looks on her side?!

That dent to the forehead aside, I think it isn’t so much what you have as how you use it. McCain carries himself like he has something to hide. I find myself just rankling at the idea of him in charge with his past actions and demeanor.

Obama carries sense of purpose when he moves and talks like he is after something greater than himself, which he is. I suppose he is a decent enough guy but it is that presence he brings forth that makes me want to vote for him. That and I find I can believe what he says and I can see in his actions that he can adapt instead of just “staying the course.”

No but Obama seems to think so as he brings it up .. Does Hillary look like most presidents ?? I never heard that mentioned..the press is for Obama but that will not win him the election>>

PUMA

Jack,

What is this country coming too? It’s really sad that we have nothing else better to do than focus on a candidate’s appearance. Who cares what the guy looks like. He couldn’t do a worse job weighing 40 or 400 lbs than President Bush.

Fort Riley, KS

You used the terms “height, weight, and OVERALL APPEARANCE”. Be glad your not running for president, the mccain campaign would accuse you of playing the “race card”

Well. . . I once voted for Ross Perot, so I guess it doesn’t matter TOO much!

I don’t think a candidate’s appearance matters all that much. In terms of physical health, as long as he/she isn’t a too busy going to the hospital or the gym to listen to a national security briefing I think everthing is fine.

We can sure tell it’s FRIDAY! So now we’re focusing on the lack of body fat in a presidential candidate. No matter what size or shape the controversy will be micro analyzed! Pleeeeeeze! It’s the issues Jack, the ISSUES!

Unless a person is so butt-ugly that it gives me shivers (sorry - I’m human after all), physical appearance doesn’t matter a bit. What does matter is the ability to communicate well, to speak clearly and passionately. After all, the single biggest power a US President has is the bully pulpit. And listening to Senator McCain reminds me of that jerk in grade school who scraped his nails on the chalkboard!

Jack you have got to be kidding me?? OK just on some of the points you made I would vote Obama because 2/3’s of America obviously needs a better example when it comes to personal health. Looks??? are you kidding me???
Luwanna Guysville OH

Okay Jack, This is getting ridiculous! Are we really focusing on he weight now!? Where was all this during the last elections!

I believe a canditates over-all appearance does have an impact on people. Especially dress and demeanor. Senator Obama has them all.

No a candidates physical appearance has no weight in my decision making process for president.

This is an example of the elite media continuing to keep our minds of the important issues that directly effect our lives.

national initiative. us-empower the sovereigns

Jack, I don’t care if the candidate weighs 100 pounds or 500 pounds, as long as he keeps to the main issues for the economy,educaton,health care and Security for the US.

Are you kidding? Jack Kennedy was elected because everyone in America could see his charm and good looks on television. Abraham Lincoln was elected because practically no one could see his homely face. Get it?

If I were going to worry about a candidate’s appearance it wouldn’t be his race or his weight I was concerned about. McCain looks old enough to be my great grandfather and I’m ready for a young, healthy candidate who’s going to take on the issues affecting my generation instead of trying to take us back to the good ‘ole days.

Looks? Aren’t politicians the ugliest celebrities in the world? Isn’t Washington Hollywood for ugly people? There’s been too much attention to looks, and, in fact, too much attention to personalities too. These two men represent two gigantic political parties with platforms, agendas and policies that are beyond even the candidates themselves to change. I’ve heard nothing about that while the media obsesses about images. Who’re the vapid celebrity airheads in that equation, huh?

Are you kidding me? This is what we are talking about?
What about issues? It is unbelievable that the airwaves are filled with questions like this. People won̵