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Michael Edward Reagan, the firstborn of President Ronald Reagan, succumbed to cancer on Sunday, January 4, 2026. His passing signifies the end of a powerful advocate for the principles and legacy of his iconic father. Across the conservative community, heartfelt tributes have acknowledged his steadfast dedication to sharing his father’s ideals and motivating newer generations to embrace them.
Michael Reagan was integral to Young America’s Foundation (YAF), particularly at the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, California. He was a familiar face at student events held at Rancho del Cielo, also known as the Western White House, acting as a vital bridge between President Reagan’s legacy and students eager to learn from it.
Governor Scott Walker, President of Young America’s Foundation, fondly remembered Reagan’s influence, stating, “Michael Reagan was an incredible source of inspiration for many of us. This was especially true for the students who attended Young America’s Foundation’s programs at the Reagan Ranch, including our high school events. Beyond recounting stories of his father, he urged the next generation to embrace the values his father championed. He encouraged them to become joyful defenders of the founding principles of our nation.”
Walker also shared his personal connection with Reagan, reminiscing about listening to him during commutes to the State Capitol in Madison, Wisconsin. “Later, I had the pleasure of getting to know him personally after becoming president of Young America’s Foundation. He was a regular presence at our student programs in California. Michael and his family often returned to Rancho del Cielo for both public and private gatherings.” He recounted their last conversation on December 22, 2025, when Reagan spoke about his health and hoped for a future visit.
“Sadly for us all, the Lord called him home sooner,” Walker reflected. “However, our discussions about his faith and devotion to Jesus offer comfort in this challenging time, knowing he is with the Lord.”
Andrew Coffin, YAF Vice President and Director of the Reagan Ranch, also paid tribute, stating, “We lost an American hero, a faithful son, and a devoted father and grandfather this week. No perspective on Ronald Reagan, though, has been more important than that of his son, Michael. Since the earliest days of this project, Michael worked alongside Young America’s Foundation to share his father’s legacy and ideas with new generations.”
Coffin emphasized Michael Reagan’s unique role in connecting younger generations with the legacy of Ronald Reagan, describing how he typically served as the opening speaker at YAF’s high school conferences. “Michael helped these future leaders better understand how Ronald Reagan’s life at the Ranch connects to his character and values,” Coffin remarked.
Coffin remembered Michael Reagan as “a uniquely gifted communicator” who preferred to speak without notes, explaining that “the few times he tried to work from a script, the speeches were failures.” Resembling the former president, “spoke in parables.” Coffin observed that “vignettes from Michael’s childhood helped illuminate his father’s character, his faith, his love for his country—even his tax policy.” Students “gravitated to that same sense of authenticity that made his father such a successful leader.”
Michael Reagan’s public influence extended beyond YAF and talk radio. As president of the Reagan Legacy Foundation, he was a prominent conservative voice defending and advancing his father’s philosophy. In a 2024 exclusive with Breitbart News, Reagan expressed strong support for Donald Trump, arguing that the former president was not stepping on Ronald Reagan’s legacy, but that America once again needed a strong leader to “right the ship.” He asserted, “Trump’s not stepping on my father. My father had his time and fixed it. We had to fix it again. And we need another strong leader. And thank goodness for Donald Trump.” Reagan also credited Trump with breaking and rebuilding the Republican Party “in a new image, with new people,” and underscored the importance of remaining vigilant, warning that “the left is not relaxing.”
Following news of his passing, a wide range of conservative voices expressed their condolences. Daily Wire political reporter Cameron Arcand wrote, “Terrible news. Many of us remember his talks @YAF. He will be missed.” Commentator Mary Walter described Reagan as “a gentleman and a very kind soul,” recalling their weekly conversations and the late-night texts he would send, forgetting the time difference. Vince Coglianese, editorial director at the Daily Caller, noted, “Good man — and radio host! I had the honor of interviewing him years ago. Praying for him and the family.”
Floyd Brown, a former radio host and author, commented, “Michael was the greatest advocate for saving the ranch from being sold to developers. He was instrumental in the preservation of his father’s beloved Ranch.” Guy Benson of Fox News said, “Oh gosh. What a nice, vibrant guy. RIP.” YAF Chief Communications Officer Spencer Brown affirmed, “Michael Reagan was a great man who ensured generations of YAF students understood who Ronald Reagan really was. His impact, stories, warm heart, and quick wit will long be remembered.”
Gabriella Hoffman, Independent Women’s Forum Center for Energy & Conservation Director, shared, “Very sad to learn of @ReaganWorld’s passing. I met him when I was a @yaf student activist many moons ago. I’m forever grateful to Mr. Reagan’s dad, President Ronald Reagan, for allowing my parents, Soviet escapees, to settle in America. RIP, sir.” Journalist Katie Pavlich stated, “Crushed to hear the news of Michael Reagan’s passing. What a life he led and always with a huge smile. RIP to one of the best.” Daniel DiMartino, founder of the Dissident Project, wrote, “Rest in peace Michael. Thank you for all you did to educate young Americans.” Corey Uhden of the California Republican Party added, “Rest in Peace @ReaganWorld. It was an honor to meet you last year.”
Michael Reagan is survived by his wife Colleen, son Cameron, and daughter Ashley. As Andrew Coffin concluded in his tribute, “Michael, you haven’t just been marking time. You’ve made a difference. Your voice has made this country stronger and freer, and, thanks to your commitment to sharing the lessons of your father with young Americans, you are making sure that we leave her in good hands.”
