In the 1980 election, they knew they were going to win big when the media pundits still said it was too close to call and others even had Carter a few points ahead on October 28, 1980, the day of the final debate.
In 1984, the big media talking point was that Reagan had pulled a few points ahead while Withlin's group had him winning 45 states for sure, four were competitive and only one (Minnesota) has Mondale slightly ahead.
One election eve, the Reagan's boarded Air Force 1 to return to California, vote and await the returns. Wirthlin told him that the local GOP Chairman in Rochester, Minnesota wanted to know if he'd be willing to make a brief campaign stop at the airport there because the local candidates could use some help in time for the 10 o'clock news.
Reagan agreed and received an enthusiastic welcome. A change of less than 3000 votes would have flipped Minnesota and given him the first ever 50 state sweep, though not a unanimous vote in the electoral college due to DC. George Washington alone holds that honor.
Thanks for sharing. Appreciate learning of your experience and insight. I voted for Reagan both times (my first two general elections) I am 56 and was a lifelong democrat of 38 years until Trump compelled me to switch to GOP in order to vote for him April 26 in my Maryland primary.
I believe Trump is the closest blue collar working class republican since The Gipper. I just pray that Trump garners comparable support come November 8!!!