Video Exclusive: Reagan endorses Haley Barbour

(By Ben Smith, Politico) - As I wrote recently, Gov. Haley Barbour, if he runs for president, already has in the can perhaps the most striking ad of the 2012 Republican primary cycle -- this direct to camera endorsement of him by Ronald Reagan during his 1982 Senate campaign:

"I'd like to take a moment to talk with you about our country's future and a very special leader - Haley Barbour," says Reagan in the ad, a portion of which can be seen above, and which is not available elsewhere. "The problems of the 1980's are rapidly changing and demanding new solutions and fresh vigorous ideas. I've learned first hand that Haley Barbour has the intelligence, courage and experience to make a great United States Senator. These are difficult times but slowly and surely we are making America prosperous again. With leaders like Haley Barbour we can look to the future with confidence and hope."