Yes, you're correct about Reagan. I remember how the press HATED him, but his charismatic personality outshown them & the American people liked what they saw.
But I do think the media has gotten wiser about not letting a good conservative get their foot in the door with them. They are shutting Hunter out, in my opinion - don't even put his name on the polls.
Luckily, we have the internet now - a valuable tool we need to use. A good conservative can win, if good conservatives get behind him or her.
Duncan Hunter: I'm sorry, but Americans (even just conservative Republicans) are not going to nominate someone to lead the party who has no executive experience. Let the Dems do that: Hitlery, Edwards, Kerry, Dodd, Obama, etc. etc. Far and away the best president in our lifetime was the former Governor of California. Please: no senators or representatives or trial lawyers need apply.
And while perfect conservative pro-life, pro-second amendment, pro-traditional marriage credentials would be nice, there aren't many of those with any kind of executive or leadership experience around. I remember in the 1970's wondering if Republicans would allow Reagan to be their nominee -- after all, he was divorced... he was part of the Hollywood elite... his kids were a bit wacky. Some people even wondered about his commitment to the pro-life movement.
What I'm suggesting is focus on the first principles: this country needs a proven experienced leader. One who is prepared to fight the war on terror at home and abroad. One who believes in limited government and "republican" principles: states rights; strict constructionist; low tax rates; personal responsibility; eliminating pork in the budget; focusing on top priorities and seeing that they are accomplished.
Rudy.