Ronald Reagan was able to come to power by riding in on the coattails of a coalition of voters created by Nixon. Yet as well as the silent majority, Reagan added the Christian Right, Businessmen, Cold War Democrats, and disgruntled blue-collar workers. The Christian Right was concerned about new social issues and what they saw as a activist’s court system, especially after Roe V. Wade. Businessman were worried about more bureaucracy and red tape. Cold War Democrats were worried about their falling status in the world and perceived weakness, especially after Carter’s failed attempt to rescues the hostages from Iran. Finally, blue-collar workers were concerned with the economy, especially high inflation and gas prices and social programs like affirmative action and school bussing. These four groups would not always get along, but they all saw issues with a growing big government and saw Reagan as the answer.
Historically Speaking 