June 6, 2004
  • "I am paying for this microphone, Mr. Breen."
    When someone tried to turn off his microphone at a Reagan-sponsored debate during 1980 New Hampshire primaries.


  • "We have to move ahead, but we are not going to leave anyone behind."
    Republican National Convention, July 1980


  • "There you go again."
    Responding to criticism during debate with President Carter, October 1980.


  • "Government is not the solution, it's the problem."
    Inaugural address, Jan. 20, 1981


  • "All of us need to be reminded that the federal government did not create the states, the states created the federal government."
    Inaugural address, Jan. 20, 1981


  • "Honey, I forgot to duck."
    To Nancy Reagan after he was shot by a would-be assassin, March 30, 1981.


  • "It's just plain common sense that there be a waiting period to allow local law enforcement officials to conduct background checks on those who wish to buy a handgun."
    Endorsing the Brady handgun control bill in March 1991


  • "I was pleased last year to proclaim 1983 the year of the Bible. But, you know, a group called the ACLU severely criticized me for doing that. Well, I wear their indictment like a badge of honor."
    January 1984


  • "I've always stated that the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth is a government program."
    April 1986