Reply #17: Excuses? How about "reasons." [View All]

[wyldwolf]

Disclaimer: I didn't vote for Reagan.

Preface: Often perceptions are not reality - yet the average voter, and often the politically knowledgeable voter - doesn't get it.

1. Many people were attracted to Reagan's "grandfather" appeal.
2. Many people were attracted to Reagan's "macho military" facade.
3. In 1980, the "misery index" -- unemployment plus inflation -- crested 20 percent for the first time since World War II.
4. Carted ignited the Iranian Hostage crisis, and was blamed for botching the rescue attempt.

Now, you can argue these points. I would, too, but that is because I know the score. The average person doesn't. Carter's approval was at 20% in 1980 so people voted Reagan for the reasons listed above.

So, I repeat - before you say "Reagan didn't go much for the military" or "the economy wasn't Carter's fault" or any other response for the reasons above, remember - perception isn't always reality.