Nation: Reagan's Money Machine

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Whatever its size, Reagan's private income enables him to pursue his goals. And as is often the case with candidates for major office or the heads of major corporations or labor unions, there always seem to be a battalion of aides to fetch a car for him, pay a restaurant bill or see that his suit is pressed. Often these outlays are covered by an expense account. Reagan's close friends insist that he would prefer a simpler, even rustic living standard. Yet he has grown to accept the perquisites he receives. Above all, they allow him to concentrate on what he believes is his main task—some say his "mission"—winning the presidency.

—By Burton Y. Pines

Reported by Jonathan Beaty/Los Angeles