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KSL joins in celebrating the extraordinary life of President Ronald Reagan.
It has been good to reflect on the values he espoused, the words he so eloquently spoke and the deeds he accomplished. We’ve been reminded of the clarity of his vision, the firmness of his resolve and his gifted capacity to convey his message.
Utahns gravitated toward Reagan and his conservative political philosophy. From his first major visit to Utah in 1968 to address the state republican convention, the great communicator captured the hearts of a majority of Utahns. His optimistic message resonated with their ideals and values. Utah voters, in turn, demonstrated their affection by voting overwhelmingly for Reagan in both 1980 and 1984.
Reagan, without question, helped define Utah’s current political landscape. His name is still invoked by local politicians who proudly describe themselves as “Reagan Republicans.”
KSL believes it would be beneficial for his political disciples to remember that Reagan was a pragmatist, not an entrenched ideologue. Affability more than rancor served his cause. Though resolute, he understood the political art of timely compromise. Even his most ardent political foes could be counted among his closest friends.
In KSL’s view, lessons can still be learned from the life and gracious style of one of the greatest leaders America has produced.
