"The Time is Now" Vintage Ronald Reagan Campaign Poster, circa 1980

Presented is a vintage “The Time is Now” campaign poster, promoting Ronald Reagan for President. The poster features a striking and colorful photograph of Ronald Reagan smiling, with a patriotic red, white, and blue background. The poster text reads, “ The time is now.” along the top, followed by “Reagan” at the bottom. Simple, concise, and urgent this slogan was used throughout the 1980 election campaign. Printed at the bottom of the poster is the official campaign authorization, “Authorized by Reagan-Bush Committee, U. S. Senator Paul Laxalt, Chairman, Bay Buchanan, Treasurer.”

Ronald Reagan launched his 1980 presidential bid on November 13, 1979, and secured the Republican Party nomination for his election on July 17, 1980. During his acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention, he ended with a firm call to action: “The time is now, my fellow Americans, to recapture our destiny, to take it into our own hands.” That campaign slogan,” The time is now,” was used throughout the rest of his campaign to highlight the urgency for political change. It was used on posters and buttons, printed on banner and signs, and worked into his formal speeches and public appearances. His campaign promised a "new beginning" for the country, in response to economic struggles and a crisis of confidence in government. On November 4th, 1980, Reagan and running mate Bush defeated Carter and Mondale, winning 489 electoral votes compared to Carter and Mondale’s 49 electoral votes.

Ronald Reagan is one of the most well-remembered presidents of the modern era. Originally a Chicago Cubs sportscaster and later actor, Reagan switched career paths to eventually become America’s 40th president, holding office from 1981 to 1989. Nicknamed “The Great Communicator” for his effective oration skills, Reagan’s presidency was defined by his foreign policy. Initiatives such as the build-up of weapons during the Cold War, the Reagan Doctrine, and the Strategic Defense Initiative would all be cited as defining characteristics of the Reagan administration.

CONDITION:

Near fine condition. Color lithograph. Color is bright and vibrant. Paper is healthy, with only minor wrinkling at corners. Printed at the bottom right with official campaign authorization, “Authorized by Reagan-Bush Committee, U. S. Senator Paul Laxalt, Chairman, Bay Buchanan, Treasurer.” Unframed Dimensions: 24" H x 18" W. 

Archivally framed in a custom-built black wooden frame. Framed Dimensions: 25 3/4" H x 19 3/4" W x 1 1/2" D.

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.