The Lincoln Project, a conservative group comprised of current and former Republicans, has launched a new video campaign aimed squarely at Donald Trump’s third run for president. Known for its critical stance against Trump, the group uses a powerful tactic in its latest 60-second ad: the words of former Republican President Ronald Reagan.
The video highlights Reagan’s speeches, urging Americans to support his vision of “cleaning house” and removing the “privileges and perks, the arrogance and big egos.” As Reagan’s voice echoes, the screen displays clips of Trump cutting ribbons at his own properties, showing opulent scenes of Mar-a-Lago, and referencing controversies, including images linked to the stolen documents case and adult film actress Stormy Daniels.
In another segment, Reagan warns Americans to “beware the temptation of pride.” This is immediately contrasted with footage of Trump, looking skyward, as he calls himself “the chosen one.” The juxtaposition is meant to emphasize the stark contrast between Reagan’s humility and Trump’s self-aggrandizement.
The ad continues with a clip from one of Reagan’s State of the Union addresses, where he tells Americans, “Don’t let anyone tell you America’s best days are behind us.” This is followed by Trump declaring, “The American Dream is dead,” further reinforcing the contrast between the two leaders’ messages.
Ryan Wiggins, Chief of Staff for the Lincoln Project, explained the intent behind the video in a press release. He said the ad is specifically targeted at moderate Republicans who have become disillusioned with Trump in recent years. “The election will be decided by those brave enough to put country over party, hope over fear, and unity over division.
Trump stands against every single principle that has guided our leaders regardless of party since the inception of this country. Being a Reagan Republican means rejecting Donald Trump at the ballot box this year,” Wiggins stated. The Lincoln Project’s strategic use of Reagan’s words serves to appeal to traditional Republicans who still revere Reagan’s legacy.
By contrasting Reagan’s ideals with Trump’s actions and statements, the group aims to persuade voters that supporting Trump would betray the very values that once defined the Republican Party. As the 2024 election looms, the Lincoln Project continues its efforts to sway undecided and moderate conservatives away from Trump’s influence, emphasizing a return to what they describe as core Republican principles.