I Feel Pretty: Vanity Finds Place in Election

July 29, 2007 — -- More the two centuries ago, when the country's founding fathers gathered in Philadelphia to carve out a nation, they probably never envisioned politics involving discussion of $400 haircuts and senatorial cleavage.

But as the race for the 2008 presidential election continues trucking, the candidates are receiving some of the same scrutiny as Hollywood stars on the red carpet.

A dazzling smile, perfect suit and power tie have become prerequisites for a presidential candidate.

Some argue that this year, the quest for good government is too focused on good grooming. During last week's YouTube debate, Democratic candidate John Edwards questioned Hillary Clinton's coat choice.

"Um, I'm not sure about that coat," he said.

Barack Obama followed his comment with praise.

"I actually like Hillary's jacket," he said as the candidates laughed. "I don't see what's wrong with it."

Recently, "The Washington Post" ran a full story covering Clinton's cleavage. "People" magazine featured a photograph of Obama in his swimsuit on the beach and the Internet has helped make Edwards' hair one of his most memorable campaign issues.

Later Edwards said in a town hall on "Good Morning America" that he could not defend his $400 haircut.

However, the Democratic candidates aren't the only ones criticized for candidate vanity. Republican White House seeker Mitt Romney's campaign spends $300 for a makeup consultant.

"If Mitt Romney and John Edwards are the party nominees, then meteorologists every where should get really excited because that's the preferred look," said Republican analyst Kelly Ann Collins.

Some said they understand the candidates' vanity.

"When someone goes on a job interview and they show up looking shabby, you would make a judgment about them," said Time.com political editor Ana Marie Cox. "These people, our presidential candidates, are basically on the world's longest job interview."

In this extended job interview, the wardrobe is constantly changing.

"They have to have a whole range of dress-up options," Cox said. "Think of paper dolls and all the kind of outfits you put on them."

Every look has to fit into the general idea of being presidential, she added.

After all, there is always the possibility of for faux pas like Michael Dukakis in a tank or John Kerry on a snowboard.

Vanity is nothing new to the process. In 1920, the first year women had the right to vote, they voted overwhelmingly for Warren Harding. Harding, who went on to win the presidency, was considered to be kind of a hunk.

Also in the 1960 election, John F. Kennedy wisely wore makeup and was tan during that first presidential debate while Nixon opted against makeup. Those who heard the debate on the radio gave Nixon the edge, but those who watched it said Kennedy won.