Political Ad Rhetorical Analysis: "Train" Reagan '84

Aw, how precious! Look at the cute old man with the little flag, the farmers playing checkers, and the cub scouts waiting with anticipation! It was a snapshot right out of a Norman Rockwell painting that is meant to be identified with by the millions of working class citizens in America.
In 1984, Reagan was just completing his extremely successful first term during which the economy boomed, oil prices were rock bottom, and inflation and taxes were low. He didn't need to use this ad to brag about these things, though. Instead, "Train" was needed as a pride booster for the common man. This ad was patriotic, image rich, and inspiring, and I believe it was probably quite effective for the campaign in general. People felt a sense of unity and fulfillment when they watched as thousands gathered to see Reagan's train pass by (an impeccable use of the band-wagon technique.) These were people just like them: the parents of large families, the elderly, and the hard-working little guy. They wanted to get out and see Reagan, maybe to "tell their grandchildren that they saw the president," or maybe they "just stopped by to say, 'thanks.'"
The train idea in and of itself is a brilliant metaphor for progress and closeness between leadership and the governed. It put Reagan on a level field with his constituents and made him more relateable. Those who did see him on that Friday would then be more likely to vote for him just because of that connection. It's like when you go to a concert or are voting for someone of your favorite reality show, if there is that connection, it doesn't really matter how good they are, they become your favorite.
On the whole I think this ad was very effective in terms of the working class audience. It did not need to rely on statistics or bashing the other side, because it's merit was in making a connection and inspiring Americans to believe in the "Leadership That's Working."