Reagan also had a knack for communicating “past” the media, directly to the people.
Reagan did indeed have a knack for it.
But it was too soon, technology-wise.
He was still heavily dependent on the media, and the media didn’t rub against him knowing the support Reagan had across America.
Plus, there actually were alot more media outlets back then. When you think about how many companies are actually in control today, you get the shivers, there have been so many acquisitions and mergers that there are only in fact about three opinions being heard anymore!