This report discusses the background, advantages, and disadvantages of the televised presidential press conference, citing the opinions of numerous newspaper and magazine writers. After presenting a brief overview of the presidential press conference from the administration of Theodore Roosevelt to that of Eisenhower, the report discusses the type and frequency of televised press conferences held by presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford. Special attention is given to the ways in which televising the conferences has affected their nature. Final sections of the report examine advantages the televised presidential press conference has for the public, for the president, and for participating reporters; outlines negative aspects of the televised presidential press conference; and presents suggestions for reform as well as for abolition of the institution. (GW)