Since there seem to be a lot of similarities between these two characters, how did people feel back then and how is it comparable to todays situation?
Its important to note that although Reagan was initially a Democrat (in the 50s), by the time he ran in 1980, he had been a figure in conservative politics for nearly 20 years.
He spoke out against Medicare and Socialized medicine in 1961. This is where the he states that if socialized medicine were to happen, we will have to tell our children"what it once was like in America when men were free."
He switched his registration (officially) in 1962 while campaigning for Nixon for governor of CA.
He campaigned for the strongly right-wing Goldwater in 1964
Was elected governor of CA in 1967, pursued 'law and order' policies as well as welfare reductions among other conservative initiatives.
Ran against sitting Republican president Ford in 1976 as a challenger from the right. Many conservatives viewed Ford as too much of a centrist moderate.
By the time he received the nomination in 1980, his conservative credentials were entirely above reproach.
What similarities do you see? Serious question