Ronald Reagan: “A Time for Choosing”
(1964)As a prominent figure in national politics, Ronald Reagan became known as the “Great Communicator.” His campaign speech for Barry Goldwater, “A Time for Choosing,” marked Reagan’s debut in national politics in 1964 and made him a leader of the conservative movement. He had delivered versions of this speech many times, polishing and refining his arguments against high taxes, budget deficits, and the eroding value of the dollar while comparing government regulation and social programs with “totalitarianism.”