Reagan’s Optimism and Life’s Unpleasant Realities

Kellerman’s view of the President is so shallow and devoid of insightful analysis one might assume that it bloomed from one of those Rose Garden photo-opportunity sessions her mentor is so fond of.

Here we have a devout anti-Keynesian who has doubled the national debt in four years, a peacetime record. One wonders what his popularity would be without the excessive tax cuts and the ensuing credit binge that have deferred the payment to future generations. All very popular. Had the same fiscal policies existed under a Democrat, the Reagan wing of the Republican Party would probably have called for impeachment. Does the word hypocrite jump to mind?

However, he should receive credit where credit is due. He and his associates have been very politically astute. He has cozied up to the religious right, normally a rather apolitical group of voters. In his standoffish relations with minorities he has won support from every racist in the country. Real leadership. But there is more. When making budget cuts he has consistently aimed them at the weakest and least powerful among us--a true humanitarian.

As to his pleasant demeanor, I wish he would extend these personal attributes to new ideas or to people who may disagree with his priorities or methods. It would be nice if he would show some insights into the pluralistic nature of our society and the useful thoughts of others. However, in these areas, the smile usually fades and indicting accusations relating to loyalty and patriotism usually follow.

But I must admit, he is a pleasant optimistic person who far too often reminds me of the freckle-faced boy on the cover of Mad magazine whose silly smile and vacant look was captioned “Who, me worry?”

DONALD A. LINDGREN

La Mesa