This 1964 presidential campaign film, narrated by Ronald Reagan, defends Senator Barry Goldwater against widespread criticism during his political career, particularly accusations of bigotry, irrationality, and being out of touch. Through a series of heartfelt testimonials from longtime employees, community members, minorities, and friends, it presents Goldwater as a compassionate, principled, and forward-thinking man. He is praised for acts of generosity, support for civil rights, dedication to his employees, and personal warmth—qualities that contradict his public image as cold, dangerous, or regressive. The film argues that perception has overshadowed reality and urges viewers to see the “real” Barry Goldwater: a humanitarian, a constitutional conservative, and a man of integrity and action.

0:00 – The film introduces Ronald Reagan, who presents two contrasting public images of Barry Goldwater: one as a dedicated Republican and family man, the other as a bigoted, outdated politician.

1:00 – Reagan references Kenneth Boulding’s idea that people act on perceived truth, not actual truth, setting up the film’s goal: to present the “real” Barry Goldwater through testimonials.

1:28 – Critics portray Goldwater as an out-of-touch millionaire indifferent to everyday people. Reagan contrasts this by introducing testimonials from people who know Goldwater personally.

2:00 – Mrs. Sugar Burlingham recalls Goldwater providing vitamins to Native Americans during WWII at his own expense.

2:34 – Katherine Worsh praises Goldwater’s compassion, recounting how he supported underdogs and improved employee conditions, including profit-sharing plans.

3:39 – Bob Roblaze, not an employee, tells a story of Goldwater flying home Arizona veterans for Christmas in 1945 at his own expense.

4:47 – Critics label Goldwater irrational and dangerous, but White Bear, a respected Native American, counters this by affirming Goldwater’s thoughtful and peace-oriented nature.

5:43 – Harry Rosenwag says Goldwater is principled and capable, not impulsive or irrational as critics claim.

6:29 – Mrs. Linda Hunt, a civics teacher, defends Goldwater’s consistency and principles, rooted in the Constitution.

7:26 – Goldwater is accused of being outdated. Gene Warren, a 40-year employee, praises his innovation and modernization of his business.

8:38 – Warren also highlights Goldwater’s generosity.

9:50 – Cecilia Aetia describes Goldwater’s approachable personality.

10:31 – Goldwater is accused of racism. Edward Banks, a Black newspaper publisher, strongly refutes this. Goldwater’s efforts to integrate Arizona’s National Guard and support civil rights causes.

12:38 – Spanish-speaking Americans from Post 41 describe Goldwater’s longstanding relationship with their community, his fluency in Spanish and sincere support before he ever sought political office.

13:31 – Joe Medina confirms Goldwater’s membership in the Spanish American Legion, arguing his actions prove he’s not a bigot.

14:01 – Reverend Nelly Taylor, a Black minister, trusts Goldwater to treat all people equally if elected president.

14:29 – White Bear reiterates that Goldwater always treated him as a person, not just an Indian.

14:48 – Clarence Marcel, a longtime Arizona resident, affirms Goldwater’s consistency, both publicly and privately, on equality.

15:26 – Joe Benitas, a young Mexican American, says Goldwater stands for America and the Constitution, earning his deep respect.

16:08 – Critics say Goldwater lacks warmth. Joanne Goldwater Ross, his daughter, reads an emotional, personal letter from Barry expressing pride and love for her at her wedding.

18:38 – Reagan quotes General Douglas MacArthur’s 1961 letter to Goldwater, encouraging him to fill a national leadership vacuum.

19:03 – Reagan summarizes: Goldwater is not a bigot, false, or backward. He is a humanitarian, authentic, forward-thinking, and deeply rooted in American values.

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