Clarity. It should have been stated very clearly that the North Vietnamese Navy engaged the destroyer USS Maddox with torpedoes and gunfire on 02 August 1964 in the Tonkin Gulf. And that a second naval battle occurred on 04 August 1964 involving the destroyers USS Turner Joy & Maddox (again).
It's quite possible that the above was stated; but reporters focused on the 04 date which was in question...leading to investigation and rumor...which got out of hand...leading to today's 21st century controversy. Both the NVN & USN agree that it was Tonkin Ghosts (radar images) on 04 August. But that wasn't a 100% confirmed fact on 07 August 1964 when the resolution was approved.
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The Tonkin Gulf Incident swung public opinion behind LBJ. A US service vessel had been attacked in international waters. This later came under suspicion.
The Kent State Incident, The Tet Offensive and The Gulf of Tonkin Resolutions
# influential role of the press in affecting public opinion # influential role of the press in affecting public opinion
"...effect...on support?" Unclear on the question. The Tonkin Gulf Incident consisted of two naval battles in the Gulf of Tonkin in August 1964. One was an actual naval battle fought between the North Viet Navy & US Navy. The other may have been a radar malfunction. Result: Open warfare between the US and North Vietnam. Sorry i meant as in support for the war among the American public.
the naval conflict int he gulf of tonkin - PLATO