Michael Reagan, Champion of Conservative Values and Son of President Reagan, Dies at 80

Michael Reagan, the eldest son of former President Ronald Reagan and a lifelong advocate for conservative principles, has died at the age of 80.

News of his death was announced by former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, now president of Young America’s Foundation, who released a statement reflecting on decades of friendship, shared faith and conservative activism. Walker described Michael Reagan as a tireless presence in the conservative movement and a familiar face to generations of students seeking to understand the ideas that shaped the Reagan presidency.

“Michael Reagan was such a wonderful inspiration to so many of us,” Walker wrote. “That was particularly true of the students who heard him at Young America’s Foundation’s programs at the Reagan Ranch.” According to Walker, Michael Reagan did far more than simply recount stories about his famous father. He challenged young Americans to embrace the values that defined Ronald Reagan’s public life and to actively defend the founding principles of the republic.

Walker said Michael Reagan consistently urged students to become “happy warriors,” echoing the optimistic but determined spirit that defined the Reagan era. At the Reagan Ranch in California, a centerpiece of Young America’s Foundation programming, Michael Reagan spoke directly to students about limited government, individual freedom, faith and patriotism, encouraging them to carry those ideals forward.

Michael Reagan carved out his own path in conservative media and activism. He spent nearly two decades as a nationally syndicated conservative radio host, using the platform to comment on politics, culture and public policy from a distinctly Reaganite perspective. After leaving broadcasting, he dedicated much of his time to traveling across the country, speaking to audiences about his father’s legacy and the enduring relevance of conservative values.

He later served as chairman and president of the Reagan Legacy Foundation, an organization focused on preserving and advancing the priorities of the Reagan presidency. Through that role, Michael Reagan worked to ensure that his father’s principles — strong national defense, economic freedom and moral clarity — remained central to conservative discussions long after Ronald Reagan left office.

In addition to radio, Michael Reagan built a long career as a television commentator, frequently offering insight on current events and the direction of the Republican Party. He remained active in conservative advocacy throughout his life and was closely involved with Young America’s Foundation, as well as several adoption-focused nonprofit organizations.

Michael Reagan was also deeply committed to charitable work. He raised more than $1.5 million for charity through powerboat racing, combining a personal passion with philanthropy. He authored several books over the years, writing candidly about conservatism, adoption and the influence his father had on his life and worldview.

While he carried one of the most recognizable names in American politics, those who knew him said Michael Reagan was determined to stand on his own merits. Through media, advocacy, charity and mentorship, he devoted his life to promoting the ideals he believed made America exceptional.

His death marks the loss of a prominent conservative voice and a bridge between the Reagan era and today’s movement, one who spent decades reminding Americans — especially the next generation — why those principles still matter.