“Communism is a world-wide conspiracy. Its goal is the destruction of everything we know to be enterprise.”

This statement was made by Ronald Reagan, motion picture and television star, at a recent press conference held in the Capitol Room at the Hotel St. Paul. 

He stressed this and other points such as “Haven’t we been trying fight communists without really fighting Communism?”

By audience reaction, it was evident that Mr. Reagan had transformed the atmosphere to one of seriousness and somberness.

Prior to this, however, upon his arrival, when a burst of applause arose, the tall, dark actor with a Slight touch of gray at the temples, jestingly commented, “I know I’m not this famous, tell me, Did I get elected to something on the way in?”

According to a biography compiled by the St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce, Reagan has been one of Hollywood’s most vigorous, public-minded citizens. He has appeared 1,000 benefits for good causes, has tenaciously fought communism and other influences harmful to the welfare of the entertainment industry.

Fingering a black onyx ring, Mr. Reagan divulged, “I make no secret about my concern on the increase of the power and the authority of the central government.”

Concerning federal aid education he pointed out two reasons why he was opposed to it. First, there has been no evidence presented for the need of federal aid to education. Secondly we run the risk of complete governmental control over education, according to Mr. Reagan.

He illustrated his feelings toward the subject in his remark, “It is like a man giving himself a blood transfusion, taking it from his right arm and putting it in the left, while spilling half of it in between on the way over.”

Mr. Reagan expressed the importance of fighting communism instead of the individuals who represent it.

“The communist isn’t danger in merely being alive. The danger lies in the subversive issues he tries to present to the public,” he said.

When asked his opinion of the John Birch Society, Mr. Reagan said that he sees nothing wrong with its policies, although he is in complete disagreement with its leader, Mr. Welch.

“I am not a member of the John Birch Society, but I know some very fine people who belong to it,” he said.

Mr. Reagan concluded his remarks with a quote from Winston Churchill. “You may have to fight when there is no hope of victory, but it is better to perish than to live like slaves.”