November 8, 1966 was a memorable day for California. This California Gubernatorial election was the most one-sided political race yet, with Ronald Reagan winning almost unanimously. His Hollywood fame and political charisma propelled him into a favorable candidate over Pat Brown.
Fun Facts:
- Ronald Reagan was the first American actor to become president. Before him, the seat was held by former soldiers and lawyers.
- Ronald Reagan ran against Pat Brown, a seasoned politician and the incumbent California governor.
- Pat Brown had promised not to seek a third term but failed to keep his word. This lowered his approval ratings tremendously, making him second best.
- Brown’s ratings were also low because of the Watts riots. These riots were kickstarted by 21-year-old African American Marquette Frye getting pulled over for drunk driving. After resisting arrest, officers reportedly struck him in the face and proceeded to kick a pregnant woman who was present on the scene. The altercation caused six days of unrest and $40 million in property damages. About 14,000 Army National Guard members were called in, and 34 people died.
- Ronald Reagan moved from being a construction worker to a lifeguard and then a radio presenter. His first taste of politics was when he worked as Screen Actors Guild president.
- Reagan had one of the most successful careers as California governor; this credibility paved the way for his presidential election win in 1980.
- During his time as Governor, Reagan raised taxes in order to turn the state deficit into a surplus. He also challenged UC Berkeley protesters and ordered in National Guard troops.
He was a scumbag that flooded America with drugs while fighting a war on drugs
The worst president in history. He flooded America with drugs while fighting the war on drugs!
President Ronald Reagan was an awesome governor and president.
Under brown california became a slum. I left when calif became a communist country back in 1990 and evicted most of the military out of northern calif.