[ThePythonicCow]

The one big difference, in my view. Reagan came from out of seemingly nowhere - by the strength of his mind and spirit.

He did not have extensive inside experience of the White House or Washington prior to becoming President. Some 16 years earlier, he had already set forth his vision, fully formed in A Time for Choosing Speech, at Goldwater's convention in 1964:

On the other hand, W.'s father had been a Washington insider all of W's life, and W got to see up close both the 8 years of Reagan's Presidency, and the 4 years of his father's.

Both of them, Reagan and W., are cut from similar cloth. Reagan gets my first vote, for the stunning boldness of his vision.

I'm sure W. owes much to Reagan, as we all owe much to both of these fine men.

[MJY1288]

Agreed, Good point

[AHerald]

Reagan gets my first vote, for the stunning boldness of his vision.

Bush's vision of bringing democracy to the Middle East is every bit as stunning and bold as Reagan's vision for the End of Communism.

[AHerald]

Oh, and one more on the Bush v Reagan "vision thing" ... On the domestic political front, it could be argued that Bush's vision for the future of Social Security is bolder and more visionary than anything Reagan proposed. Even he didn't have the stomach to touch the Third Rail of American politics.

They're both unique and visionary leaders.

[azGOPgal]

I really appreciate your feelings and remembrances of President Reagan. I was born in 83 so everything that I know about Reagan's time in office is from books and television. But to hear you guys explain from your own experiences Ronald Reagan, I almsot feel as if I was politically aware during that time.

I sometimes wish that I was a bit older during Reagan's admin but per Kayak's choice of scripture I know to be thankful for at least having the opportunity of seeing our nation pay tribute to such a wonderful man and great leader.

Thank you for sharing with us your recollections of President Reagan.