Beschreibung:

REAGAN, Ronald. Typed letter signed ("Ronnie") to Ted Humes, the Pennsylvania State Chairman of Citizens for Goldwater-Miller, Pacific Palisades, [CA], 19 November 1964. 1 page, 4to (10 7/8 x 8 7/16 in.), on personal stationery, in fine condition. REAGAN ADMITS "I HAVE NEVER ASPIRED TO A POLITICAL CAREER" BUT PONDERS THE POSSIBILITY: "I'M GOING TO DO SOME DEEP SOUL SEARCHING An intriguing letter written by Reagan on the verge of a career in high political office which would eventually lead to the White House. By 1964, Reagan's acting career had faded into obscurity, but an active role in a variety of political campaigns and a multitude of political connections had made him a likely Republican candidate: "Reagan, despite never having spent a day in public office, had political assets that his opponents failed to recognize" (Cannon, Ronald Reagan , p. 38). In 1964, Reagan's political star was rising and a televised speech made on behalf of presidential candidate Barry Goldwater earned him considerable praise. Here, in the wake of Goldwater's defeat, Reagan responds to a suggestion made by Hume that he consider political office: "While I have never aspired to a political career I realize there is much to think about in that regard from the standpoint of my responsibility. I assure you I'm going to do some deep soul searching in the days ahead. I appreciate your offer of help and it shall be taken into consideration in my thinking." Reagan's supporters made an earnest effort to achieve his nomination for the California Governor's seat. Aided by his staunch party loyalty and his popular appeal, the former actor was elected governor in November of 1966.