Top US Presidents

When evaluating U.S. presidents, approval ratings provide a valuable measure of how these leaders were perceived by the public during their time in office. These ratings, compiled through numerous polls, reflect the highs and lows of each presidency, shaped by their policies, decisions, and the historical context of their terms.

From Franklin D. Roosevelt's steadfast leadership during the Great Depression and World War II to John F. Kennedy's handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis, the following list highlights presidents who achieved notable average approval ratings. Their ability to navigate through crises, implement effective policies, and connect with the American people are key factors that contributed to their high approval ratings.

Let's review the top U.S. presidents ranked by their average approval ratings during their time in office, along with their notable accomplishments.

1. John F. Kennedy (1961-1963)

Average Approval Rating: ~70%

Notable Accomplishments:

• Cuban Missile Crisis: Successfully managed the Cuban Missile Crisis, averting a potential nuclear war. Kennedy's calm and strategic handling of this high-stakes confrontation with the Soviet Union is often cited as a key moment of his presidency.
• Space Race: Set the goal for the U.S. to land a man on the moon, leading to the Apollo program. His famous speech at Rice University in 1962 inspired the nation to invest in space exploration, ultimately leading to the moon landing in 1969.

2. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933-1945)

Average Approval Rating: ~66%

Notable Accomplishments:

• New Deal Programs: Implemented a series of programs and reforms to combat the Great Depression, including Social Security and unemployment insurance. These programs provided immediate relief to millions of Americans and established lasting social safety nets.
• World War II Leadership: Guided the nation through most of World War II, helping to lead the Allies to victory. Roosevelt's leadership during this critical period included significant strategic decisions and wartime diplomacy.

3. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961)

Average Approval Rating: ~65%

Notable Accomplishments:

• Interstate Highway System: Championed the creation of the Interstate Highway System, transforming American infrastructure and facilitating economic growth and mobility.
• End of Korean War: Negotiated an armistice to end the Korean War in 1953, helping to stabilize the region and bring peace after years of conflict.

4. George H.W. Bush (1989-1993)

Average Approval Rating: ~61%

Notable Accomplishments:

• Gulf War Victory: Successfully led a coalition to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait in the Gulf War. His decisive military action and international coalition-building were widely praised.
• Americans with Disabilities Act: Signed the ADA, prohibiting discrimination based on disability. This landmark legislation significantly advanced civil rights for disabled Americans.

5. Bill Clinton (1993-2001)

Average Approval Rating: ~55%

Notable Accomplishments:

• Economic Growth: Presided over a period of economic expansion, resulting in budget surpluses and low unemployment. His administration's fiscal policies contributed to a robust economy during the 1990s.
• Welfare Reform: Signed the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, reforming the welfare system to promote work and reduce dependency.

6. Ronald Reagan (1981-1989)

Average Approval Rating: ~53%

Notable Accomplishments:

• Economic Policies: Implemented supply-side economic policies, known as "Reaganomics," which reduced taxes and regulations. These policies aimed to stimulate economic growth and were influential in shaping subsequent economic policy.
• End of Cold War: Played a significant role in ending the Cold War through diplomatic efforts and military build-up. Reagan's strategic initiatives and dialogues with Soviet leaders helped reduce global tensions.

7. Barack Obama (2009-2017)

Average Approval Rating: ~48%

Notable Accomplishments:

• Affordable Care Act: Enacted comprehensive healthcare reform, providing millions of Americans with health insurance. This landmark legislation aimed to expand access to healthcare and reduce costs.
• Economic Recovery: Led the recovery from the Great Recession through stimulus packages and financial reforms. His administration's efforts were crucial in stabilizing the economy and promoting recovery.

In the end, presidential approval ratings offer a fascinating snapshot of how U.S. leaders are viewed in their time. From FDR's steady hand during crises to JFK's youthful optimism, and Reagan's bold stance during the Cold War, these presidents captured the nation's trust and admiration. While approval ratings can fluctuate due to political and social challenges, the leaders who maintain high ratings throughout their tenure often leave a lasting legacy. Whether through navigating wars, economic hardships, or cultural shifts, their popularity reflects their unique ability to connect with the American people and steer the nation forward.

References: Final Presidential Job Approval Ratings | Presidential Job Approval--All Data | A History of Presidential Approval Ratings | End of Term Presidential Approval Ratings | "We choose to go to the Moon"