Did Reagan Permanently Change the GOP?

**Founding Members can listen to the entire Reagan series now: sign up at therestispoliticsus.com.**

In the final episode of the Reagan series, Katty and Anthony dive into the explosive Iran-Contra scandal — the secret arms deals, shredded documents, and the moment Reagan’s presidency nearly unraveled. 

Yet while scandal swirled, Reagan was also signing landmark nuclear treaties with Gorbachev.  How did he survive politically? Was it his charm, myth-making, or distance from the details? 

And what about his legacy? We explore how Reagan reshaped the Republican Party, left behind a model of tax cuts and billionaire politics, and whether he ultimately set the stage for Donald Trump. 

Sunny optimism gave way to grievance;  but did Reagan light the path?

Become a Founding Member: Go deeper into US politics every week with ad-free listening, members-only miniseries, early access to live show tickets and a bonus members-only Q&A podcast every week. Sign up at ⁠⁠therestispoliticsus.com⁠⁠

Revolut Business

To save your company time and money, open a Revolut Business account today via www.revolut.com/rb/therestispoliticsus, and add money to your account by 31st of December 2025 to get a £200 welcome bonus or equivalent in your local currency. Feature availability varies by plan. This offer’s available for New Business customers in the UK, US, Australia and Ireland. Fees and Terms & Conditions apply.

For US customers, Revolut is not a bank. Banking services and card issuance are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC. Visa® and Mastercard® cards issued under license. Funds are FDIC insured up to $250,000 through Lead Bank, in the event Lead Bank fails. Fees may apply. See full terms in description. For Irish customers, Revolut Bank UAB is authorised and regulated by the Bank of Lithuania in the Republic of Lithuania and by the European Central Bank and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. For AU customers, consider PDS & TMD at revolut.com/en-AU. Revolut Payments Australia Pty Ltd (AFSL 517589).

Instagram: ⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠

Twitter: ⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠

Email: ⁠therestispoliticsus@goalhanger.com⁠

Assistant Producer: India Dunkley

Producer: Fiona Douglas

Video Editor: Kieron Leslie 

Social Producer: Charlie Johnson 

Senior Producer: Callum Hill

Head of Content: Tom Whiter

Head of Digital: Sam Oakley

Exec Producers: Tony Pastor, Jack Davenport 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices