Stuart K. Spencer, Political Consultant

When Ronald Reagan decided to run for governor, he picked a young political consultant named Stu Spencer and his partner Bill Roberts to run the campaign. It was the start of a successful political partnership – and friendship – that stretched nearly four decades, although not without some rough patches.

In this oral history with author and journalist Lou Cannon, Spencer details Reagan’s strengths and weaknesses as a candidate – and as governor and president – and the important role played by Nancy Reagan.

Part 1 – Reagan for Governor:

Full transcript, Part One

Part 2 – The Reagan Presidency

Full transcript, Part Two

For more information, please read the biographies by Lou Cannon: “Governor Reagan: His Rise to Power”and “President Reagan: The Role of a Lifetime.”

The transcripts and video were edited for organizational clarity and continuity.

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This project was supported by a grant from the California State Library.