The First Presidential Campaign Ad en español

By Luis Clemens

Latino political marketing is not a new phenomenon. The first-known Spanish-language presidential campaign ad on television dates back to 1960 when Jacqueline Kennedy recorded a spot touting her husband’s presidential bid. In the sixty second, black-and-white commercial, Jackie´s Spanish is somewhat hesitant but easily understood. The production values are weak but the message is a clear and strong appeal to Hispanic voters.

Here is the literal transcript of her comments in Spanish (including the errors) followed by a figurative translation to English.

“Queridos amigos, les habla la esposa del senador John F. Kennedy candidato a la presidencia de los Estados Unidos. En estos tiempos de tanto peligro cuando la paz mundial se ve amenazada por el comunismo es necesario tener en la Casa Blanca un líder capaz de guiar nuestros destinos con una mano firme. Mi esposo siempre vigilara los intereses de todos los sectores de nuestra sociedad que necesitan la protección del gobierno humanitario. Para el futuro de nuestros niños y para lograr un mundo donde exista la paz verdadera votan ustedes para el partido demócrata el día 8 de noviembre.

“¡Que Viva Kennedy!”

“Dear friends, I am the wife of Senator John F. Kennedy candidate for the presidency of the United States. In these times of great danger when world peace is threatened by Communism we need a firm hand in the White House, a leader capable of guiding our destinies. My husband will watch out for the interests of all the sectors of society that need the protection of a humanitarian government. For the future of our children and in order to achieve world peace, please vote for the Democratic Party on November 8th.

“Long Live Kennedy!”

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2 Responses to “The First Presidential Campaign Ad en español”

  1. Latino Family Politics « Platicando Says:

    [...] I believe the first Hispanic family ad in presidential politics dates to Bush 41’s campaign ad “Father-in-law“, which featured his Mexican-born daughter-in-law Columba Bush (Although, you could argue that description should go to the very first Spanish-language presidential campaign commercial). [...]

  2. Villaraigosa Bobblehead « Platicando Says:

    [...] you are visiting us from LA Observed then consider taking a peek at the first Spanish-language presidential campaign commercial or at mini-telenovelas created to promote Senator Barack Obama’s candidacy. Or read about how [...]

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