Reagan's secret to being the teflon president

[andym]

In 1980, I could not understand how Reagan was able to be elected, given all of his extreme public statements like trees were the greatest source of pollution, etc. Even more incredible was how he constantly "mis-spoke" and yet the majority of the public loved him and the commentators gave him a free pass.

In the end, I think it was because of his public personality: a very pleasant, kindly old man who was perceived as one who could never do anything hurtful. Ironic, given his extreme politics, the problems he created as he began to take apart the social safety net and the variety of other problems he helped create, some of which are present to this day.

But there is one important lesson: in America it's the kindly, warm politician who gets the breaks from the public and the media. Perceived kindness and benevolence= teflon. Teflon = power.

Which Democratic politicians of today have the warm-hearted persona to wield teflon?

I'm hoping Obama might (we'll see), but anyone else?

[phantom power]

1. Teflon is something the MSM applies to candidates of their choosing.

Republican candidates.

[andym]

2. RE: Teflon is something the MSM applies to candidates of their choosing

>> Republican candidates.

Well the MSM certainly chooses. But besides Reagan I can't think of any other teflon politician including republicans.

(Well Bill Clinton had some teflon at least with the public, as his favorability ratings always were high even during the impeachment. Note that Clinton had a great deal of empathy which always came through)

[JeanGrey]

3. I disagree that Reagan was ever viewed as a "kindly old man".

From what I saw he was viewed as a tough, no nonsense Harrison Ford kind of President. But old man?

[mulsh]

4. An extremely complicit media didn't hurt Reagan.

For instance they never wrote about the recall movement here in CA that started during his first term as governor. Teflon my ass he was repellent

[Stinky The Clown]

5. The courtly Mario Cuomo

Never a harsh tone from him.

Always well spoken and polite in the extreme.