Memorable Massachusetts debates

By Lisa Tuite for the Globe Magazine

Memorable clashes and defining remarks in local debate history.

US Senate, 1962
Ted Kennedy vs. Edward McCormack

Memorable Line: On the question of his qualifications, McCormack jabbed his finger toward the inexperienced Kennedy and said that if his opponent’s name were Edward Moore, his candidacy “would be a joke. But nobody’s laughing because his name is not Edward Moore. It’s Edward Moore Kennedy.”

Significance: Riding home with aides and listening to caller after caller on the radio complain about McCormack’s attack on the young Kennedy, McCormack finally said, “Turn it off, the race is over.”

Memorable clashes and defining remarks in local debate history. US Senate, 1962 Ted Kennedy vs. Edward McCormack Memorable Line : On the question of his qualifications, McCormack jabbed his finger toward the inexperienced Kennedy and said that if his opponent’s name were Edward Moore, his candidacy “would be a joke. But nobody’s laughing because his name is not Edward Moore. It’s Edward Moore Kennedy.” Significance : Riding home with aides and listening to caller after caller on the radio complain about McCormack’s attack on the young Kennedy, McCormack finally said, “Turn it off, the race is over.”
Ed Kelley/Globe File

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