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Recent criticism from young conservative voices regarding Ronald Reagan’s legacy on abortion and immigration overlooks crucial historical context and his lasting impact on American conservatism.

While critics accurately point out Reagan’s signing of California’s abortion legislation before Roe v. Wade, they fail to recognize his subsequent profound transformation on the issue. The political landscape of that era saw widespread support for abortion rights, even among Evangelicals, until greater understanding sparked the pro-life movement.

Reagan emerged as a pioneering force in the post-Roe era, becoming the first president to champion pro-life policies without typical exceptions. His stance contrasted sharply with his Republican predecessors and rivals, including Gerald Ford’s pro-abortion position.

Regarding immigration, the 1986 reform act’s amnesty provision came as part of a broader compromise with a Democrat-controlled House, promising enhanced border security measures. Though the deal ultimately failed to deliver on border protection, attributing today’s immigration crisis to this decades-old legislation misses the mark.

Democratic leadership’s pattern of negotiating in bad faith became evident again during George H.W. Bush’s presidency. “The Democrats did indeed raise taxes, but for every $1 of new taxes they actually increased spending $1.82.”

Reagan’s presidency transformed America fundamentally. He halted Communist expansion and orchestrated the Soviet Empire’s collapse, despite fierce opposition from foreign policy establishments. His economic policies dramatically reduced recession frequency and slashed top tax rates from 70 percent to 28 percent.

Under Reagan’s leadership, stock market participation surged from 15 percent to 54 percent by the late 1990s, democratizing wealth creation through private ownership. He revolutionized the Republican platform by making it explicitly pro-life, an unprecedented move at the time.

These achievements came when conservatism barely existed as a movement. Given the Soviet archives’ revelations about America’s precarious position in the late 1970s, Reagan’s presidency likely preserved the nation’s existence.

Today’s conservative movement should acknowledge both the successes and shortcomings of its pioneers, learning from their experiences while advancing their vision.