With clear eyes and an ever-present wit, Bunch reveals the truth about the Ronald Reagan legacy, including the following:
Despite the idolatry of the last fifteen years, Reagan's average popularity as president was only, well, average, lower than that of a half-dozen modern presidents. More important, while he was in office, a majority of Americans opposed most of his policies and by 1988 felt strongly that the nation was on the wrong track. Reagan's 1981 tax cut, weighted heavily toward the rich, did not cause the economic recovery of the 1980s. It was fueled instead by dropping oil prices, the normal business cycle, and the tight fiscal policies of the chairman of the Federal Reserve appointed by Jimmy Carter. Reagan's tax cut did, however, help usher in the deregulated modern era of CEO and Wall Street greed.
Most historians agree that Reagan's waste-ridden military buildup didn't actually "win the Cold War." And Reagan mythmakers ignore his real contributions -- his willingness to talk to his Soviet adversaries, his genuine desire to eliminate nuclear weapons, and the surprising role of a "liberal" Hollywood-produced TV movie.
George H. W. Bush's and Bill Clinton's rolling back of Reaganomics during the 1990s spurred a decade of peace and prosperity as well as the reactionary campaign to pump up the myth of Ronald Reagan and restore right-wing hegemony over Washington. This effort has led to war, bankrupt energy policies, and coming generations of debt.
With masterful insight, Bunch exposes this dangerous effort to reshape America's future by rewriting its past. As the Obama administration charts its course, he argues, it should do so unencumbered by the dead weight of misplaced and unearned reverence.
Contents - summary created by ChatGPT-3.5
Introduction to the New Edition
The book challenges the popular perception of Ronald Reagan as a conservative hero and instead paints a more complex portrait of his presidency.
Bunch begins by acknowledging the continued popularity of Reagan among conservatives and the Republican Party. He argues that this popularity is based on a distorted understanding of Reagan's legacy, perpetuated by right-wing media outlets and politicians who ignore or whitewash his flaws.
Bunch goes on to outline the major themes of the book. He argues that Reagan's economic policies were not the unqualified success that they are often portrayed as, and that his administration was marked by corruption and scandal. He also contends that Reagan was not the "great communicator" that he is often made out to be, and that his speeches were often misleading and divisive.
One of the book's major arguments is that Reagan was not the staunch defender of individual liberty and civil rights that he is often portrayed as. Bunch points out that Reagan was opposed to the Civil Rights Act and other landmark civil rights legislation, and that his administration was marked by numerous instances of human rights abuses, particularly in Latin America.
Another major theme of the book is Reagan's foreign policy. Bunch argues that Reagan's aggressive stance towards the Soviet Union was not the decisive factor in ending the Cold War, and that his administration's support for dictators and death squads in Central America had devastating consequences for the region.
Bunch also addresses the legacy of Reagan's presidency in contemporary politics. He argues that the Republican Party's continued adherence to Reagan's policies has led to economic inequality, political polarization, and a decline in American democracy.
In the updated edition, Bunch also discusses the impact of the Trump presidency on Reagan's legacy. He argues that Trump's presidency was in many ways a continuation of Reagan's policies, particularly in the area of deregulation and tax cuts for the wealthy. However, Bunch contends that Trump's presidency also exposed the weaknesses of Reagan's legacy, particularly in terms of the erosion of democratic norms and the rise of right-wing extremism.
Bunch concludes by arguing that a more honest appraisal of Reagan's legacy is necessary for understanding contemporary American politics. He suggests that a more nuanced understanding of Reagan's presidency could help to bridge the political divide in the United States, and to create a more just and equitable society.
Overall, "Introduction to the New Edition" sets the stage for a compelling critique of the popular perception of Ronald Reagan's presidency. Bunch's book challenges readers to rethink their understanding of Reagan's legacy, and to consider the ways in which his policies have shaped contemporary American politics.
Chapter One - Ronald Reagan Boulevard
Chapter One sets the stage for the rest of the book by examining the ways in which the myth of Ronald Reagan has been constructed and perpetuated in American society. The chapter begins with an anecdote about a proposal to rename a section of California State Route 118 after Reagan, which serves as a symbol of the widespread adulation for the former president.
Bunch argues that Reagan's image has been carefully crafted over the years, largely by right-wing activists and politicians who seek to use his legacy to promote their own agendas. He notes that even during Reagan's presidency, his accomplishments were often overstated and his failures ignored or minimized. Bunch sees this as part of a larger pattern of conservatives using propaganda and disinformation to advance their political goals.
One key aspect of the Reagan myth, according to Bunch, is the idea that he was a staunch conservative who championed free markets and limited government. Bunch challenges this view, pointing out that Reagan actually presided over a massive expansion of government, including increases in defense spending and the national debt. He also notes that Reagan supported government intervention in the economy when it suited his purposes, such as when he imposed tariffs on imported steel to protect domestic producers.
Another part of the Reagan myth that Bunch examines is the idea that he was a unifying figure who brought Americans together. Bunch argues that this view is largely a fiction, pointing out that Reagan was a highly divisive figure who was opposed by many Americans, particularly minority groups and those on the left. He also notes that Reagan's policies often exacerbated existing divisions, such as his cuts to social welfare programs that disproportionately affected poor and minority communities.
Bunch also addresses the way in which Reagan's image has been used to promote militarism and imperialism, particularly in the years since 9/11. He notes that Reagan is often portrayed as a heroic Cold Warrior who stood up to the Soviet Union, even though his policies may have actually prolonged the conflict. Bunch also argues that Reagan's rhetoric about American exceptionalism and his willingness to use military force to advance American interests helped pave the way for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Throughout the chapter, Bunch argues that the Reagan myth is dangerous because it promotes a distorted view of history that obscures the real complexities and contradictions of Reagan's presidency. He suggests that this myth has been perpetuated through a variety of means, including conservative media outlets, think tanks, and political campaigns. Bunch also points out that the Reagan myth has been used to advance policies that are antithetical to many of the principles that Reagan himself espoused, such as fiscal responsibility and limited government.
In conclusion, Chapter One of "Tear Down This Myth" provides a compelling overview of the ways in which the Reagan legacy has been manipulated and distorted by right-wing activists and politicians. Bunch argues that the Reagan myth serves as a powerful propaganda tool that obscures the real complexities and contradictions of Reagan's presidency, while promoting a narrow and ideologically driven view of American history. By challenging this myth, Bunch hopes to provide a more nuanced and accurate understanding of Reagan's legacy, and to promote a more informed and thoughtful discussion of American politics and history.
Chapter Two - A Man Before Myth
Chapter Two delves into the early life and political career of Ronald Reagan, in an attempt to understand the origins of his political views and beliefs. Bunch argues that while Reagan is often portrayed as a conservative icon, his political journey was more complicated than is often acknowledged, and that his views and beliefs evolved over time.
The chapter begins by examining Reagan's childhood in Illinois, where he was raised in a middle-class family and developed an early interest in politics. Bunch suggests that Reagan's early political views were shaped by his father's support for Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal, which Reagan later came to reject.
Bunch also explores Reagan's early career as an actor and his involvement in the Screen Actors Guild, where he developed a reputation as a union leader and advocate for workers' rights. Bunch argues that Reagan's experience in Hollywood helped shape his political views and made him more sympathetic to the struggles of ordinary Americans.
The chapter then moves on to Reagan's first foray into politics, when he was elected governor of California in 1966. Bunch notes that Reagan was not initially seen as a particularly ideological figure, but rather as a pragmatist who was willing to work across party lines. However, Bunch argues that Reagan's views began to shift to the right during his time as governor, particularly in the wake of the 1960s counterculture and civil rights movements.
Bunch also examines Reagan's two presidential campaigns, in 1976 and 1980, and argues that Reagan's political views and rhetoric evolved over the course of these campaigns. Bunch notes that Reagan initially struggled to define his political identity and appeal to voters, but ultimately became a masterful communicator who was able to tap into the anxieties and fears of many Americans.
Throughout the chapter, Bunch emphasizes the complexity and nuance of Reagan's political journey, arguing that his views and beliefs were shaped by a variety of factors, including his upbringing, his experiences in Hollywood, and the shifting political landscape of the 1960s and 1970s. Bunch suggests that the simplistic view of Reagan as a staunch conservative icon is a distortion of his true political identity.
In conclusion, Chapter Two of "Tear Down This Myth" provides a detailed exploration of Ronald Reagan's early life and political career, in an attempt to understand the origins of his political views and beliefs. Bunch argues that while Reagan is often portrayed as a conservative icon, his political journey was more complex and nuanced than is often acknowledged, and that his views and beliefs evolved over time. By exploring these early years of Reagan's life, Bunch hopes to provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of his legacy, and to challenge the simplistic and distorted view of Reagan that is often promoted by right-wing activists and politicians.
Chapter Three - An Untaxing Burden
Chapter Three examines Ronald Reagan's economic policies, particularly his approach to taxes and government spending. Bunch argues that while Reagan is often celebrated as a tax-cutter and advocate of small government, his policies actually contributed to significant increases in the federal deficit and left many Americans worse off.
The chapter begins by exploring Reagan's early views on taxes and government spending, which were shaped in part by his experience as a businessman and actor. Bunch notes that Reagan initially supported progressive taxation and believed that the wealthy should pay a higher share of taxes. However, as Reagan's political career progressed, he became increasingly focused on cutting taxes and reducing the size of government.
Bunch then examines Reagan's economic policies as president, particularly the Tax Reform Act of 1986, which is often cited as one of Reagan's signature achievements. Bunch argues that while the tax reform did simplify the tax code and eliminate some loopholes, it also disproportionately benefited the wealthy and contributed to the growing income inequality that persists today.
The chapter also explores Reagan's approach to government spending, particularly his belief in the "trickle-down" theory of economics, which held that cutting taxes on the wealthy would stimulate economic growth and ultimately benefit all Americans. Bunch notes that while Reagan's policies did lead to some short-term economic growth, they also contributed to significant increases in the federal deficit and left many Americans struggling to make ends meet.
Bunch also examines the role of Reagan's advisers in shaping his economic policies, particularly his budget director David Stockman, who later became a vocal critic of Reagan's policies. Bunch argues that Stockman's warnings about the dangers of Reagan's policies were largely ignored by the president and his allies in Congress.
Throughout the chapter, Bunch emphasizes the ways in which Reagan's economic policies were shaped by ideology rather than evidence or practical considerations. Bunch suggests that Reagan's policies were driven by a belief in the power of the free market and a deep distrust of government, rather than a genuine concern for the well-being of ordinary Americans.
In conclusion, Chapter Three of "Tear Down This Myth" provides a critical examination of Ronald Reagan's economic policies, particularly his approach to taxes and government spending. Bunch argues that while Reagan is often celebrated as a tax-cutter and advocate of small government, his policies actually contributed to significant increases in the federal deficit and left many Americans worse off. By exploring these policies in depth, Bunch hopes to provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of Reagan's legacy, and to challenge the simplistic and distorted view of Reagan that is often promoted by right-wing activists and politicians.
Chapter Four - Warrior Defused
Chapter Four examines Ronald Reagan's approach to national security and foreign policy. Bunch argues that while Reagan is often celebrated as a strong and decisive leader who won the Cold War, his policies actually contained significant contradictions and inconsistencies.
The chapter begins by exploring Reagan's early views on national security and foreign policy, which were shaped in part by his experience as a Hollywood actor and president of the Screen Actors Guild. Bunch notes that Reagan initially supported disarmament and a more peaceful relationship with the Soviet Union, but became increasingly hawkish as the Cold War intensified.
Bunch then examines Reagan's policies as president, particularly his approach to nuclear weapons and arms control. Bunch notes that while Reagan did negotiate some arms reduction agreements with the Soviet Union, his policies were also characterized by a significant expansion of the US nuclear arsenal and a renewed focus on military spending.
The chapter also explores Reagan's role in the Iran-Contra scandal, which involved the illegal sale of arms to Iran and the diversion of funds to anti-communist rebels in Nicaragua. Bunch argues that the scandal exposed the flaws in Reagan's foreign policy, particularly his tendency to prioritize ideological goals over practical considerations.
Bunch also examines Reagan's legacy in the Middle East, particularly his support for Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and his opposition to the Palestine Liberation Organization. Bunch argues that while Reagan's policies were popular among right-wing activists in the US, they ultimately contributed to the ongoing conflict in the region.
Throughout the chapter, Bunch emphasizes the ways in which Reagan's foreign policy was shaped by ideology rather than evidence or practical considerations. Bunch suggests that Reagan's policies were driven by a belief in American exceptionalism and a desire to promote democracy and capitalism around the world, rather than a genuine concern for international peace and stability.
In conclusion, Chapter Four of "Tear Down This Myth" provides a critical examination of Ronald Reagan's approach to national security and foreign policy. Bunch argues that while Reagan is often celebrated as a strong and decisive leader who won the Cold War, his policies actually contained significant contradictions and inconsistencies. By exploring these policies in depth, Bunch hopes to provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of Reagan's legacy, and to challenge the simplistic and distorted view of Reagan that is often promoted by right-wing activists and politicians.
Chapter Five - Prospero Unmasked
Chapter Five examines Ronald Reagan's economic policies, particularly his approach to taxation, deregulation, and the role of government in the economy. Bunch argues that Reagan's policies were shaped by a belief in free-market capitalism and a distrust of government intervention, but that these policies also contributed to growing economic inequality and other problems.
The chapter begins by exploring Reagan's early views on economics and government, which were influenced in part by his experience as an actor in Hollywood. Bunch notes that Reagan initially supported New Deal-style policies, but became increasingly skeptical of government intervention as his political career advanced.
Bunch then examines Reagan's policies as president, particularly his approach to taxation and deregulation. Bunch notes that while Reagan is often credited with ushering in an era of economic prosperity, his policies also contributed to growing inequality, environmental degradation, and other problems.
The chapter also explores the controversy surrounding Reagan's tax policies, particularly his support for large tax cuts for the wealthy. Bunch argues that while Reagan's policies were popular among conservatives and business interests, they ultimately led to a significant increase in the federal deficit and other economic problems.
Bunch also examines Reagan's legacy in the area of environmental policy, noting that his administration was marked by significant rollbacks of environmental regulations and a lack of action on climate change. Bunch argues that Reagan's policies reflected a broader conservative backlash against environmentalism and government regulation.
Throughout the chapter, Bunch emphasizes the ways in which Reagan's economic policies were shaped by ideology rather than evidence or practical considerations. Bunch suggests that Reagan's policies were driven by a belief in free-market capitalism and a distrust of government intervention, rather than a genuine concern for economic prosperity or social justice.
In conclusion, Chapter Five of "Tear Down This Myth" provides a critical examination of Ronald Reagan's economic policies and their impact on the US economy and society. Bunch argues that while Reagan is often celebrated as a champion of free-market capitalism and economic prosperity, his policies also contributed to growing inequality, environmental degradation, and other problems. By exploring these policies in depth, Bunch hopes to provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of Reagan's legacy, and to challenge the simplistic and distorted view of Reagan that is often promoted by right-wing activists and politicians.
Chapter Six - Rolling Back Reagan
This chapter focuses on the ways in which the legacy of Ronald Reagan has been used by conservative politicians and activists to push for policies that are the opposite of what Reagan himself stood for.
Bunch begins by discussing the Reagan tax cuts, which have been held up as a model for conservative economic policy ever since they were enacted in 1981. However, Bunch points out that Reagan's tax cuts were not intended to benefit the wealthy at the expense of everyone else. In fact, Reagan raised taxes multiple times during his presidency, and the tax code was actually more progressive by the end of his time in office than it was when he took office.
Bunch then moves on to discuss the conservative movement's use of Reagan's name to push for policies that he would not have supported. For example, many conservatives today argue that Reagan would have supported the Tea Party movement and its push for smaller government. However, Bunch argues that Reagan actually believed in using government to solve problems, and that he would not have supported the Tea Party's extreme anti-government views.
Bunch also discusses the ways in which Reagan's legacy has been used to support the conservative push for deregulation. However, Bunch points out that Reagan actually supported regulations in many areas, including environmental protection and workplace safety. Reagan also believed in enforcing existing regulations, which is not something that many modern conservatives support.
The chapter also looks at the issue of immigration, which has become a key issue for many conservatives today. Bunch argues that Reagan's views on immigration were much more nuanced than many conservatives give him credit for. Reagan supported amnesty for undocumented immigrants, and he believed in a more compassionate approach to the issue.
Bunch also discusses the conservative movement's use of Reagan's name to push for a more aggressive foreign policy. However, Bunch argues that Reagan actually believed in diplomacy and in working with other nations to solve problems. He was not a warmonger, and he did not believe in the use of military force as a first resort.
The chapter ends by looking at the ways in which Reagan's legacy has been distorted to support the conservative push for a more religious America. Bunch argues that Reagan was not a religious zealot, and that he believed in the separation of church and state. He also supported the rights of non-believers, something that many modern conservatives do not.
Overall, Bunch's chapter on "Rolling Back Reagan" is a powerful critique of the ways in which the conservative movement has used Reagan's legacy to push for policies that are the opposite of what he stood for. Bunch shows that Reagan was a complex figure who cannot be reduced to a set of simplistic talking points, and that his true legacy is one of compassion, diplomacy, and a belief in the power of government to solve problems.
Chapter Seven - Enter the Mythmakers
This chapter focuses on the role of conservative activists and media outlets in creating the Reagan myth that has become so central to modern conservatism.
Bunch begins by discussing the role of Grover Norquist, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Americans for Tax Reform. Norquist has been a key figure in promoting the idea that Reagan's tax cuts were the key to economic growth and that all tax increases are bad for the economy. However, Bunch argues that Norquist's view of Reagan's economic policies is overly simplistic and does not reflect the complexity of Reagan's actual views.
Bunch then moves on to discuss the role of conservative media outlets like Fox News in promoting the Reagan myth. He argues that these outlets have helped to create a distorted view of Reagan that emphasizes his conservative credentials and ignores his more moderate views on issues like taxes, regulation, and immigration.
The chapter also looks at the role of think tanks like the Heritage Foundation in promoting the Reagan myth. Bunch argues that these organizations have played a key role in pushing for policies that Reagan would not have supported, such as the dismantling of the social safety net and the deregulation of industries like finance and energy.
Bunch also discusses the role of conservative intellectuals like George Will and William F. Buckley in promoting the Reagan myth. He argues that these intellectuals have helped to create a narrative of Reagan as a conservative hero who stood up to the Soviet Union and saved the American economy.
The chapter also looks at the ways in which conservative activists have used Reagan's legacy to push for a more conservative Supreme Court. Bunch argues that Reagan's actual views on the role of the courts were more moderate than many conservatives give him credit for, and that he would not have supported the extreme views of figures like Antonin Scalia.
Bunch ends the chapter by discussing the ways in which the Reagan myth has been used to promote a more aggressive foreign policy. He argues that Reagan's actual views on foreign policy were much more nuanced than many conservatives give him credit for, and that he believed in diplomacy and working with other nations to solve problems.
Overall, Bunch's chapter on "Enter the Mythmakers" is a powerful critique of the role that conservative activists and media outlets have played in creating a distorted view of Reagan's legacy. He shows that the Reagan myth is a carefully crafted narrative that ignores many of Reagan's actual views and policies, and that it has been used to promote a conservative agenda that Reagan himself would not have supported.
Chapter Eight - The Great Misinterpreter
In this chapter, Bunch focuses on the ways in which President Ronald Reagan's words and actions have been misinterpreted and distorted by conservative activists and media outlets.
Bunch begins by discussing Reagan's famous "A Time for Choosing" speech, which he delivered in support of Barry Goldwater's presidential campaign in 1964. Bunch argues that conservatives have often misinterpreted this speech as a call to arms for their movement, when in reality Reagan's views on many issues were much more moderate than many conservatives give him credit for.
The chapter then moves on to discuss the ways in which conservatives have distorted Reagan's views on race and civil rights. Bunch argues that Reagan's actual record on these issues was much more mixed than many conservatives would like to admit, and that he often took actions that were in conflict with his rhetoric.
Bunch also discusses the ways in which conservatives have distorted Reagan's views on religion and morality. He argues that while Reagan was a religious man and believed in the importance of morality, he did not believe in using religion as a political tool or in imposing his own religious beliefs on others.
The chapter also looks at the ways in which conservatives have distorted Reagan's views on the environment and climate change. Bunch argues that Reagan was not the anti-environmentalist that many conservatives make him out to be, and that he believed in the importance of protecting the environment for future generations.
Bunch then turns to the issue of immigration, arguing that Reagan's actual views on this issue were much more moderate than many conservatives would like to admit. He points out that Reagan signed a comprehensive immigration reform bill in 1986, which included a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
The chapter also looks at the ways in which conservatives have distorted Reagan's views on gun control. Bunch argues that Reagan was not the staunch defender of the Second Amendment that many conservatives make him out to be, and that he supported some restrictions on gun ownership.
Bunch ends the chapter by discussing the ways in which conservatives have distorted Reagan's views on social programs and the role of government. He argues that Reagan believed in the importance of a strong social safety net and did not believe in dismantling programs like Social Security and Medicare.
Overall, Bunch's chapter on "The Great Misinterpreter" is a powerful critique of the ways in which conservatives have distorted Reagan's legacy and used his words and actions to promote a conservative agenda. He shows that Reagan's actual views on many issues were much more nuanced and moderate than many conservatives would like to admit, and that his legacy has been used to push for policies that he himself would not have supported.
Chapter Nine - Reagan's '08 Campaign
Will Bunch examines the role of Ronald Reagan in the 2008 presidential campaign. Bunch argues that the Republican candidates and their supporters attempted to use Reagan's legacy to promote their own political agendas, but that their efforts ultimately fell short.
Bunch begins by discussing the ways in which John McCain, the Republican nominee for president in 2008, attempted to position himself as the heir to Reagan's legacy. McCain frequently invoked Reagan's name on the campaign trail and tried to paint himself as a maverick in the mold of the former president.
However, Bunch argues that McCain's attempts to use Reagan's legacy were ultimately unsuccessful. He notes that many conservatives were unhappy with McCain's positions on issues like immigration and campaign finance reform, and that McCain himself had been a vocal critic of Reagan during his early years in the Senate.
Bunch also discusses the efforts of conservative activists and media outlets to promote their own agenda by invoking Reagan's legacy. He notes that many of these groups attempted to paint Barack Obama, the Democratic nominee for president, as a radical leftist who was out of step with Reagan's vision for America.
However, Bunch argues that these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful as well. He notes that Obama was able to successfully appeal to independent voters and even some moderate Republicans, and that his victory in the election marked a rejection of the conservative agenda that had been promoted in Reagan's name.
The chapter also looks at the ways in which the Tea Party movement attempted to use Reagan's legacy to promote its own agenda in the years following the 2008 election. Bunch argues that while many Tea Party activists claimed to be inspired by Reagan, their actual positions on issues like taxes and government spending were much more extreme than Reagan's own views.
Bunch concludes the chapter by discussing the ways in which Reagan's legacy has been used to promote a conservative agenda that he himself would not necessarily have supported. He argues that by selectively invoking Reagan's name and legacy, conservatives have been able to push for policies like tax cuts for the wealthy and the dismantling of social programs, even though Reagan himself did not necessarily support these positions.
Overall, Bunch's chapter on Reagan's role in the 2008 presidential campaign is a powerful critique of the ways in which conservatives have attempted to use Reagan's legacy to promote their own agenda. He shows that while many Republicans have tried to position themselves as heirs to Reagan's legacy, their actual positions on issues often diverge significantly from Reagan's own views.
Chapter Ten - Exorcising Gipper's Ghost
Will Bunch argues that it is time for America to move beyond Reagan and to confront the challenges facing the country in the 21st century. Bunch contends that the "Reagan myth" has been used by conservatives to justify policies that are harmful to the country, and that it is time for a more honest appraisal of Reagan's legacy.
Bunch begins by discussing the ways in which the Reagan myth has been used to justify policies like tax cuts for the wealthy and the dismantling of social programs. He notes that while Reagan himself did advocate for some of these policies, his actual record on issues like taxes and government spending was much more nuanced than the "Reagan myth" would suggest.
Bunch also argues that the Reagan myth has been used to promote a narrow view of American history and identity. He notes that many conservatives use Reagan's legacy to justify a kind of "white nationalism" that is at odds with the country's true history and values.
Bunch then turns to the question of how to move beyond the Reagan myth. He argues that it is important to acknowledge both the positive and negative aspects of Reagan's legacy, and to recognize that the challenges facing America today are different from those faced by Reagan in the 1980s.
Bunch suggests that one way to move beyond the Reagan myth is to focus on issues that Reagan himself was passionate about, such as nuclear disarmament and the environment. He notes that Reagan was able to work across party lines on these issues, and that a similar approach could be effective today.
Bunch also suggests that it is important to promote a more inclusive vision of America, one that recognizes the contributions of people of all races, genders, and backgrounds. He notes that this vision is at odds with the narrow, exclusionary view of America promoted by many conservatives.
The chapter also discusses the ways in which the left has attempted to use Reagan's legacy to promote its own agenda. Bunch argues that while some on the left have recognized the negative aspects of Reagan's legacy, others have fallen into the trap of mythmaking and hero worship.
Bunch concludes the chapter by arguing that it is time to exorcise the
ghost of the Gipper and to confront the challenges facing America in a
new and honest way. He notes that this will require a willingness to
challenge the myths and distortions that have been used to promote a
narrow and harmful agenda, and to embrace a more inclusive and
forward-looking vision of America.
https://www.amazon.com/Tear-Down-This-Myth-Right-Wing/dp/1416597638
First response from a Q&A with Will Bunch who Tears Down the Reagan Myth
Will Bunch: It's hard for me to even imagine how somebody under 30 must perceive Reagan, the way he's been mythologized over the last 15 years or so. Somebody who's 30, who would have first started hearing about Reagan in high school, would have first started hearing about him in 1993, right around the time he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and only really positive things were said about him in the public debate...
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2009/02/qa-political-blogger-will-bunch-on-ronald-reagan
Will Bunch: Tearing Down The Reagan 'Myth'
Journalist Will Bunch says that the legacy of Ronald Reagan, which is claimed by the right and was so often referred to by Republican presidential candidates in the 2008 election, is not an accurate depiction of Reagan's presidency.
In his new book, Tear Down This Myth, Bunch argues that the Reagan legacy was created largely by Washington conservatives in the 1990s, who wanted a hero who they could associate with the conservative agenda.
"It's been very hard for the modern generation of Republicans to develop a leader ... who has the kind of charisma that Ronald Reagan has had," Bunch tells Fresh Air's Terry Gross. In the absence of that charisma, Bunch says, the next generation decided to "borrow it" from the past.
The Reagan legacy credits America's 40th president with winning the Cold War and turning the American economy around in the 1980s. But the truth, says Bunch, is that Reagan was a divisive president with only average approval ratings and "virtually zero support from African Americans." Furthermore, he says, Reagan's trickle-down theory of economics didn't save the American economy, nor was the president responsible for "winning" the Cold War.
Despite his criticisms of Reagan's presidency, Bunch is not without some
kind words for the late president: "Ronald Reagan was very successful in
connecting with the American people because of his optimism. ... He clearly
had a strong belief in himself and a belief in America."
https://www.npr.org/2009/02/05/100253947/will-bunch-tearing-down-the-reagan-myth
