Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan (1911-2004), American actor, Governor of California, and 40th U.S. President (1981-1989), had notable personal encounters with UFOs. In 1974, while flying to Bakersfield as governor, Reagan and pilot Bill Paynter witnessed a bright white light that accelerated like a 'hot rod' at a 45-degree angle into the sky. Family friend Lucille Ball recalled Reagan and Nancy describing a 1950s sighting while driving, arriving late and excited to a dinner party. Reagan shared his belief in UFOs openly, including multiple speeches to Mikhail Gorbachev positing an alien threat could unite humanity against external foes. No key publications or official testimony emerged, though letters urged his advisors on UFO disclosure. Reagan referenced premonitory dreams and mysticism alongside UFO interests.