Donald Trump’s ranking as the last among the American presidents in a recent survey has sparked widespread criticism and discussion. The Presidential Greatness Project Expert Survey, conducted annually, involves the participation of over 150 historians and presidential experts who rank the presidents based on various criteria. In the latest edition released on Presidents Day, Donald Trump found himself at the bottom of the list, while President Joe Biden secured the 14th spot.
The survey results were highlighted by MSNBC’s Joy Reid, who aired a clip of Trump expressing his desire for an economic crash during an interview on Lindell TV. Reid took this opportunity to point out that Trump’s wish had seemingly come true, as the new ranking placed him below even some of the least esteemed presidents in history.
The MSNBC host criticized Trump for actively rooting against the country’s well-being and its people, emphasizing his statement about not wanting to be compared to Herbert Hoover. Reid then revealed that the poll conducted by historians and scholars placed Trump at the very bottom, ranking him 45th out of 45 presidents. This ranking put him behind figures such as Richard Nixon, Franklin Pierce, and even William Henry Harrison, who tragically passed away just a month after taking office.
Presidential historian Michael Beschloss shared his lack of surprise at Trump’s ranking, noting that even when judged solely on ideological grounds by fellow Republicans, Trump only managed to secure the 41st position. However, Beschloss cautioned against comparing presidents across different generations, as each leader faced unique challenges and lived in distinct eras where different ideas held importance.
When asked about Trump’s low ranking, Beschloss expressed his astonishment at how a president who was impeached twice and allegedly sought to undermine the Constitution could fare so poorly. He highlighted the severity of Trump’s actions, including the attempted insurrection and the potential threat to congressional leaders’ lives.
The survey’s outcome has generated significant debate, with experts and commentators dissecting the implications of Trump’s ranking and its impact on his political legacy. As discussions continue, it remains clear that assessing a president’s greatness is complex and subjective, influenced by various factors and perspectives.
