Career in Polling Firm and Politics
In 1969, Wirthlin founded a survey research firm based in Los Angeles. Over the years the firm had various names, including Decision Making Information, Inc., The Wirthlin Group, and finally, Wirthlin Worldwide. The firm was acquired in 2004 by Harris Interactive. After the merger with Harris Interactive, Wirthlin served on its board of directors.
In 1980, when California governor Ronald Reagan decided to run for president, he turned to Wirthlin for political advice. Wirthlin, together with his consulting firm, played a pivotal role in both the 1980 and 1984 elections of Reagan. After Reagan won the 1980 presidential election, Wirthlin moved to Washington, D.C. and continued to assist the president and the Republican National Committee. His work on the first Reagan campaign earned him the title, Adman of the Year, declared by Advertising Age.
In addition to consulting work, he was the author of two books and at least one podcast:
- The Greatest Communicator: What Ronald Reagan Taught Me about Politics, Leadership, and Life, co-authored with Wynton Hall, Published in 2004, the book describes his years working with former president Ronald Reagan
- Estrategia Electoral: Persuadir Por La Razon, Motivar Por La Emocion, La Estrategia De La Comunicacion Politica, published in 1995
- Podcast on Entrprenuerism, February 12, 2007
Read more about this topic: Richard Wirthlin
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