I'm not going to address Reagan's politics or policies or my thoughts about them at the time or in retrospect. But I'll go on record with my opinion that the man really knew how to give a speech. I used to adore watching his State of the Union speeches because they were pure, delightful Americana, all yay for capitalism and independence and beating those deluded commies.
As you may remember, I was underwhelmed by our President's Inaugural speech. Too blah, too unfocused, and far too long. I am happy to say that tonight's Address (that in any other year would be a State of the Union) was a tremendous improvement. From a pure speechifying perspective it was fab--consistent in tone, chock-full of quotable lines and tangible goals (can everyone say Rah! for regaining our status as most-educated nation by 2020?), and beautifully delivered.
Never underestimate the importance of a rip-roaring speech. As a people, we love to be inspired.
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