My History Can Beat Up Your Politics

The Asterisk; BUSH VS. REAGAN 1980

10.22.2023 - By Bruce CarlsonPlay

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

In 1980, George Bush did the impossible. He went from three percent in the polls, an asterisk in the polls, as he called himself, to defeating front-runner Ronald Reagan in the Iowa caucuses. The issue: electability, moderation, and age. The event upset a rage and nearly changed history. Indeed, it put the Bush name into politics. We discuss what happened and how it might provide insight into today's races.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More episodes from My History Can Beat Up Your Politics