I’m not sure what astounds me more. The compassion and pragmatism in Reagan and Bush’s positions on illegal immigration, or the fact that they’re not speaking in talking points.
Of course, the fact that two guys took a position three decades ago doesn’t mean it’s the right one, but the clip is testament to the fact that, although the Reagan/Bush team remains the most popular historical ticket among Republicans by a wide margin, and the subject of constant nostalgia, it isn’t at all clear if GOP voters today would accept their rhetorical moderation or positions on offer.
I can tell you from hanging out on Free Republic some is that when Reagan and Bush are discussed their actions with regards to immigration are held as a blot on their records.