Meaning: The quote by Robert Scheer, a well-known journalist, provides insight into his experience with Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States. Scheer reflects on the time he spent with Reagan, both before his gubernatorial campaign in California and during his presidential run. He emphasizes the value of his interactions with Reagan, particularly in the absence of cameras, as it allowed him to assess the depth of Reagan's intellect and knowledge. This quote sheds light on the journalist's perspective on the importance of engaging with political figures on a substantive level, away from the public spotlight.

Robert Scheer's career as a journalist has been marked by his in-depth coverage of political events and personalities, making his insights into his interactions with Reagan particularly significant. Scheer's emphasis on spending time with Reagan away from the public eye suggests a desire to understand the true substance of the individual beyond the polished facade often presented to the public. This approach aligns with the principles of investigative journalism, where reporters seek to uncover the realities behind the public personas of political figures.

The mention of "testing the quality of their minds and their knowledge base" indicates Scheer's focus on assessing Reagan's intellectual capabilities and depth of understanding on various issues. This implies that Scheer sought genuine, substantive conversations with Reagan, aiming to gauge his grasp of important topics and his ability to articulate informed viewpoints. Such an approach reflects a commitment to thorough and critical journalism, as it prioritizes the exploration of a political figure's competency and expertise.

Scheer's reference to his experience as a "print reporter without the cameras" highlights the contrast between private, unrecorded interactions and the public performances of political figures. This differentiation underscores the significance of behind-the-scenes engagements, where individuals may feel less pressure to adhere to scripted narratives or public expectations. By stressing the value of these private interactions, Scheer suggests that the true essence of a political figure may be most accurately captured in unguarded moments, away from the constraints of public appearances.

Furthermore, Scheer's choice to mention his interactions with Reagan both before his gubernatorial campaign and during his presidential run indicates a sustained engagement with the political figure over an extended period. This suggests a deliberate effort to gain comprehensive insights into Reagan's mindset, knowledge, and evolution as a leader. By establishing such continuity in his interactions, Scheer positions himself as a journalist committed to deepening his understanding of political figures over time, rather than merely engaging in superficial or transient encounters.

In conclusion, Robert Scheer's quote provides a glimpse into his approach to engaging with political figures, particularly through his experiences with Ronald Reagan. His emphasis on testing the quality of minds and knowledge base, away from the public eye, underscores the depth of his journalistic pursuits. By prioritizing substantive, in-depth interactions, Scheer exemplifies a commitment to uncovering the genuine essence of political figures beyond their public personas. This quote serves as a testament to the importance of thorough, critical engagement in the realm of political journalism.