Exploring parallels between Biden, Reagan in second-term campaigns
UC journalism professor explains what Reagan faced while running for second term
Spectrum News turned to a University of Cincinnati journalism professor to explain parallels between President Joe Biden's bid for a second term and the successful second campaign of former President Ronald Reagan.
UC College of Arts and Sciences Professor Brian Calfano told Spectrum News that Reagan faced criticism over his age similar to what President Biden is facing today.
Pundits said Reagan, like Biden, lost his first debate, in Reagan's case to challenger Walter Mondale. But in the second debate, Reagan directly addressed criticism over his age.
“I will not make age an issue of this campaign. I will not exploit for political purposes my opponent's youth and inexperience,” Reagan said.
“The president 40 years ago faced many of the same questions facing Biden now. But voters elected Reagan in a landslide in 1984, just as they had in 1980,” Calfano said.
“Voters, especially if they are ardent supporters, will end up supporting their candidate, no matter what,” Calfano said.
Related Stories
What makes us happy?
August 3, 2026
Suzie White, an assistant professor in the UC School of Education, was interviewed by the publication Upworthy for a story about the communal nature of happiness. White teaches the class, Happiness in Action, which applies the science of happiness to everyday life.
2026 Cincinnati Business Courier's '40 Under 40' includes nine UC alumni
August 3, 2026
Nine remarkable University of Cincinnati alumni have been named by the Cincinnati Business Courier to its annual “40 Under 40” Class for 2026.
Summer grads ready for life’s next chapter
August 3, 2026
The University of Cincinnati will honor 2,125 summer 2026 graduates in two ceremonies at Fifth Third Arena, highlighting record enrollment, co-op success and global student stories.