High School

How does Checkers, an illegal campaign "gift," contribute to the central idea of the speech?

A. Nixon's love for Checkers undermines his system of ethics and morality.
B. Nixon's love for Checkers shames those who accused him of personally using political funds.
C. Nixon's love of Checkers assures his political base that he is a family man first.
D. Nixon's love of Checkers is a thinly veiled taunt to Democratic opponents.

Answer :

Final answer:

The mention of Checkers the dog in Nixon's speech played a role in framing him as a family man to his political base, helping to deflect criticisms and accusations regarding misuse of campaign funds.

Explanation:

The question revolves around how the mention of Checkers, a dog given to Richard Nixon's family, contributed to the central idea of Nixon's televised speech. Nixon used the mention of Checkers to humanize himself, responding to allegations that he had misused campaign funds. The correct answer to this question is that Nixon's love of Checkers assures his political base that he is a family man first. This aspect of the speech contributed to painting Nixon as a relatable family man, countering the political accusations against him and garnering public sympathy.

B. Nixon's love for Checkers shames those who accused him of personally using political funds.