Ever since Richard Nixon’s Checkers speech brought the then-vice president back from near political death, campaign managers have recognized that spotlighting a candidate’s family is one of the smartest—and perhaps easiest—moves to make. While campaign ads have evolved over the years, becoming both more cynical and sleek, a common thread remains: the ever-adoring wife. Her longing looks, her gentle laugh, her smile and deep admiration all say: “This is a guy you can trust—this is your next [fill-in-relevant-government-post].”
Since campaign season is officially in full swing, we put together a tribute to all the wives who’ve had to look lovingly into their husband’s eyes again and again—until that perfect moment was captured.
Now Stare. Don’t Stop.
The perfect political wife’s loving gaze in campaign ads.
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