Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin says debates reveal character strengths and weaknesses . 1960 debate contrasted `` vigorous '' Kennedy with `` sallow '' Nixon . Reagan 's humor defused Carter 's indignation in 1980 debate . Here comes my line ! ' Comment: Bush underscored Clinton 's ability to connect .
Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin says debates reveal character strengths and weaknesses . 1960 debate contrasted `` vigorous '' Kennedy with `` sallow '' Nixon . Reagan 's humor defused Carter 's indignation in 1980 debate . Comment: Bush underscored Clinton 's ability to connect .