Ronald Reagan & Tip O’Neil

The relationship between Republican President Ronald Reagan and Democratic Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill was a masterclass in separating political rivalry from personal friendship, famously summed up by their "friends after 6 PM" rule. This dynamic was perfectly captured during a tense government shutdown in 1981.

After a full day of harsh public criticism against each other over budget disagreements, President Reagan placed an evening call to Speaker O'Neill's office. An aide expecting a heated negotiation was surprised to hear O'Neill laugh and chat warmly with the President. Instead of arguing, the two men shared a joke, demonstrating their ability to leave the day's political battles behind.

The very next day, despite the government still being shut down, O'Neill led the entire House of Representatives in singing "Happy Birthday" to Reagan. This anecdote illustrates how their underlying mutual respect and personal affection allowed them to function as fierce political opponents without becoming personal enemies. This foundation of civility enabled them to eventually broker the compromises necessary to govern, a practice often remembered as a hallmark of a bygone era in Washington.