I think Walter's contribution has been greatly exaggerated.
As an 'oldie' here, I can assure you that EVERYONE in the U.S. watched the nightly news and it was assumed that Walter was not only telling the truth, but that he had a very special, annointed, place at the table, so to speak, that gave him the inside and accurate track to whatever was going on. There was absolutely no question that what he said 'must be gospel'. You must keep in mind that none of us had alternative sources of information - the local newspaper, radio (music and sports and hourly short news headlines and weather was the total fare)and the nightly news on TV was it. That nightly news broadcast was THE way that everyone found out what was going on. Walter was beyond reproach and considered a part of everyone's family. Sorry to be long-winded, but this is definitely where the reign of so-called mainstream media, and their power, began.
I remember it too. He was known as "The most trusted man in America" - makes me want to vomit :-(
Oh geeeze - you are so right about watching Saint Walter during the 60's. How many lies per night did he tell? How much did he contribute to the evolving of a Silent Majority?
I don't think I disagree with what you remember or your impression but I'm an "oldie" as well and was certainly around at the time. Putting things in perspective, the nation didn't vote as your memory implies. What the vote does indicate is that at that point we (the nation) were sick and tired of a no win or at least a confusing or non-resolute strategy.