Ronald Reagan's first inaugural address

[Altitude]

Either you are saying that despite Reagan's speech writer's words of hope and courage things can still go to hell (as they did with 'ol Ronny) or that - in so many words - his speech writer's message is/was no different than Obama's.

So which is it?

[bobselectric]

Originally Posted by Altitude

Either you are saying that despite Reagan's speech writer's words of hope and courage things can still go to hell (as they did with 'ol Ronny) or that - in so many words - his speech writer's message is/was no different than Obama's.

So which is it?

Don't want to argue about it- in my opinion President Reagan gave Americans pride in their country again- after the Carter fiasco, Gerald Fords "no win situation", and Nixon's abbreviated second term. This country, like it or not, is the Frank Sinatra of the world- the most loved, hated, respected, feared, generous, compassionate, demonized, and lionized nation on earth. We openly broadcast our failures, scandals, and dirty laundry as well as being the first to lend anyone a helping hand. We welcome all persons, regardless of economics or social standing and give all the opportunity to succeed. There is far more opportunity in this country for anyone than in any other country on the face of the earth.
The difference between President Reagan and President-Elect Obama is that Reagan crafted his "message" from long term experience- as president of the SAG and Governor of the state of California. He entered his Presidency with a core of values that were his own- not a conglomerate of focus groups and public opinion. When the going got tough his convictions didn't waver.
As far as I have seen, President-Elect Obama has already wavered on his foreign policy (He has backed off his pledge to meet with Achmenijad (sp?) and Kim Il Jong unconditionally)and on his pledge to bring a fresh face to government (the appointment of most of the Clinton gov't to positions in his).
Time will tell if President-Elect Obama is to be a great president. You cannot realistically anoint him before he has taken office.