Could Reagan Lead This G.O.P.?

Introduction

 

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library/Ho/European Pressphoto Agency Ronald and Nancy Reagan during the Presidential Inauguration Parade in 1981.

Jeb Bush said today that in the modern G.O.P., Ronald Reagan would have a hard time getting nominated. Is he right? In the current Republican Party, would Reagan still be a leader, or would he be seen as too accommodating because of his bipartisan compromises on issues like income tax rates, foreign policy and amnesty for illegal immigrants?

Debaters    Read the Discussion »

• He Wouldn’t Have Made It Past Iowa or N.H.

  Norman J. Ornstein, American Enterprise Institute
  The party that idolizes Reagan has missed a crucial lesson from his eight years: slogans might get you elected, but pragmatism builds a legacy.

• He Could, but He’d Have His Hands Full

  Linda Chavez, former Reagan official
  The 40th president would remind modern Republicans that getting the big things right is more important than punishing every ideological deviation.

• His Charm Would Win Them Over

  Lewis L. Gould, professor of history and author
  Jeb Bush is half-right. His father would have difficulty getting the nomination today, but not Ronald Reagan.

• As a Candidate, Yes. As a President, No.

  Romesh Ratnesar, author, "Tear Down This Wall"
  Although Reagan's foreign policy might not sit well with today's Republicans, as a candidate, the party would love him.

• Reagan Would Be a Tea Party Hero

  Anne Sorock, The Frontier Lab
  Reagan was more than a charismatic tax-cutter; he was an insurrectionist within the Republican Party.

• If Only Jeb Bush Were Running

  John J. DiIulio Jr., former George W. Bush official
  Jeb Bush is right, Reagan would not fare well in today's Republican Party. He was too effective and persistent.