1976, Part 5: Ford vs. Reagan and the battle for the Republican Party

1976, Part 5: Ford vs. Reagan and the battle for the Republican Party

Author: Appen Podcast Network March 25, 2026 Duration: 1:20:25

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! In this episode, the Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan's showdown for the Republican nomination in 1976  became one of the most consequential intraparty battles in modern political history.

What began as a challenge from the right quickly evolved into a full-scale fight for the identity and direction of the GOP, pitting Ford's pragmatic, incumbent leadership against Reagan's insurgent conservative vision.

We trace how Reagan transformed from a long-shot challenger into a serious threat, energizing grassroots activists and reshaping the party's ideological center.

We also explore the broader stakes of the contest—how debates over government size, economic policy, and America's role in the world divided Republicans, and why this clash marked a turning point for modern conservatism. 

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

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Since its start in 2019, The Georgia Politics Podcast has served as a steady guide to the political landscape of the Peach State. This isn't just a surface-level recap; it's a focused dive into the mechanics and personalities shaping policy where it happens. You'll hear detailed analysis of the latest from under the Gold Dome, breaking down complex legislation and the political maneuvers driving the news. The conversations go beyond the capitol steps, however, connecting statehouse decisions to their real-world impact on communities from the mountains to the coast. Produced by the Appen Podcast Network, each episode prioritizes clarity and context, whether the legislature is in session or not. Tuning in means getting a clearer picture of how Georgia's House and Senate operate, the key figures involved, and why their actions matter. For anyone curious about the forces directing one of the country's most politically dynamic states, this podcast provides an essential, grounded perspective. It’s designed for engaged citizens who prefer substance over soundbites, offering a reliable narrative of how Georgia's government functions, fights, and finds its way forward.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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