>I consider anything that makes a candidate look confused or stupid or ineffective politically loaded, damaging to reputation (in the context of an election) and therefore libelous.

The you are clearly misinformed as to the nature, facts, and purpose of libel law, and it would be a mistake for anyone to believe what you have to say on the matter.

Using an unflattering picture or depiction cannot be libel. Making a false statements (an in the case of public figures, such as presidential candidates) those statements must be made with "actual malice" or be published with a reckless disregard for the truth. N.B. I am not a lawyer.