Reagan's election marked a shift to conservative policies.
Survived assassination attempt early in his presidency.
Triumph of the Conservative Coalition
Evangelical Christians became a significant political force, forming groups like the Moral Majority led by Jerry Falwell and later the Christian Coalition.
New Right: Arose supporting conservative causes.
Reagan won the 1980 election due to economic issues, the Iran hostage crisis, and his communication skills.
His policies included lowering taxes, reducing government regulation, and cutting social program funding.
Reagan's Economic Policies
Aimed to reduce federal government power, expanding Nixon's New Federalism by delegating responsibilities to states through block grants.
Supply-side economics (Reaganomics): \text{Economic growth depends on increasing the supply of goods and services.}
Tax cuts: Reduced federal taxes by 25% over three years.
Deregulation: Reduced government controls on business.
Deficits and debt grew due to tax cuts, increased military spending, and rising costs of Social Security and Medicare.
National debt nearly tripled during Reagan's years.
Reagan’s Social Policies
Reduced social welfare spending, cutting funding for programs like food stamps and aid for the elderly and disabled.
Addressed HIV/AIDS crisis, though initially resisted.
Initiated the "Just Say No" media campaign to combat drug use, along with the DARE program.
Appointment of conservative justices resulted in a conservative shift.
Civil rights groups felt alienated due to Reagan's stance on civil rights enforcement, busing, and affirmative action.
George H. W. Bush: Continuing Reagan’s Policies
Continued Reagan's policies, winning the 1988 election.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Passed in 1990, banning employment discrimination against people with disabilities.
Savings and loan crisis: Deregulation led to risky loans and bankruptcies.
Economic problems and social tensions: Rose, including riots in Los Angeles after the Rodney King beating verdict.
Violated "no new taxes" pledge to address the deficit.