President Reagan's Interview on Barry Goldwater on March 28, 1984

President Ronald Reagan reflects on his long-standing personal and political relationship with Senator Barry Goldwater, tracing their acquaintance back to 1948. Goldwater’s 1964 presidential campaign served as the foundational catalyst for the modern conservative movement and Reagan’s own political trajectory, providing the Republican Party with a sense of dignity and determination despite the era's internal divisions. Beyond his legislative influence, Goldwater is characterized by a deep personal compassion, illustrated by stories of him canceling campaign events to visit the terminally ill or personally flying stranded soldiers home during the Vietnam War. While the two occasionally differ on policy, their relationship remains rooted in mutual respect rather than political grudges. Goldwater is defined not by predictability, but by an unwavering commitment to his honest convictions, ensuring he remains a guiding figure for colleagues in the Senate.