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| Why Donald Trump’s Presidency May Not Deserve the Title of America’s ‘Best Ever |
Donald J. Trump, the 45th President of the United States, remains one of the most polarizing and talked-about figures in American political history. Elected in 2016 as a political outsider and businessman with no prior government or military experience, Trump’s presidency sparked strong reactions across the political spectrum—both highly critical and deeply supportive.
Among his supporters, there is a recurring claim: “Donald Trump was the greatest president the United States has ever had.” But why do people say this? What are the reasons behind this belief?
This article explores the arguments put forward by those who view Trump as the best president, examining economic, political, and ideological factors, while also acknowledging the broader context and critiques of his time in office.
Supporters often point to the pre-COVID economy as one of Trump’s biggest achievements:
Record-low unemployment: Before the pandemic hit in early 2020, unemployment in the U.S. had dropped to 3.5%, the lowest in 50 years.
Stock market growth: The Dow Jones Industrial Average and other markets reached record highs during Trump’s term.
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (2017): This legislation reduced corporate tax rates and aimed to stimulate business investment, which Trump supporters credit for economic growth.
Deregulation: Trump focused on rolling back federal regulations, particularly in the environmental and financial sectors, arguing that it helped businesses grow faster.
Supporters argue that these policies unleashed American economic potential and empowered job creators, especially in the manufacturing and energy sectors.
Trump’s foreign policy was guided by the principle of "America First", which emphasized national interest over traditional diplomatic alliances and institutions. Key actions include:
Withdrawal from international agreements: Trump pulled the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Accord, the Iran Nuclear Deal, and the Trans-Pacific Partnership, saying these agreements were unfair to American workers.
Tough on China: Trump launched a trade war with China to address what he saw as long-standing unfair trade practices, gaining praise for standing up to Beijing.
Abraham Accords: His administration brokered historic normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab nations, including the UAE and Bahrain.
Reducing military involvement: Trump attempted to reduce the U.S. footprint in the Middle East, including troop withdrawals from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.
To his supporters, Trump’s approach signaled a bold, unapologetic shift from globalism to nationalism, which they believe prioritized American sovereignty and security.
One of Trump’s most controversial—and supported—policies was his stance on immigration:
The border wall: While not fully completed, hundreds of miles of physical barriers were built or reinforced during Trump’s term.
Strict immigration controls: Trump reduced refugee admissions, increased ICE activity, and implemented the "Remain in Mexico" policy for asylum seekers.
Travel ban: He issued an executive order banning travel from several Muslim-majority countries, which he claimed was necessary for national security.
Supporters argue that these measures protected American jobs, reinforced law and order, and upheld the rule of law—core themes of his campaign.
Perhaps one of Trump’s most lasting impacts is on the judiciary:
He appointed three Supreme Court Justices: Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett, shifting the Court’s balance toward conservatism for potentially decades.
He appointed over 200 federal judges, more than any president in recent history in a single term.
For conservatives and constitutional originalists, this judicial legacy is seen as a monumental achievement, protecting conservative values on issues like gun rights, abortion, and religious freedom.
Many Trump supporters admire his confrontational style and willingness to challenge the political establishment and mainstream media.
He referred to mainstream outlets as "fake news" and positioned himself as a voice for ordinary Americans, particularly those in rural areas and the Rust Belt.
Trump’s use of social media—especially Twitter—allowed him to bypass traditional media and speak directly to his base.
His rhetoric was often blunt, controversial, and combative, but supporters saw this as refreshing honesty in contrast to “political correctness.”
This anti-elite positioning made Trump hugely popular among voters who felt ignored or looked down upon by coastal political and media elites.
Trump built one of the most loyal political bases in modern American history:
He won over working-class voters, many of whom had previously voted Democrat.
His rallies drew tens of thousands of supporters, even after his presidency.
He maintained influence over the Republican Party, with many candidates aligning with his platform and style.
For his base, Trump embodied the idea of a fighter—a political outsider who stood up to the swamp, challenged globalism, and fought for American jobs, values, and pride.
Another reason many consider Trump the best president is his vocal opposition to what he and his supporters call "woke" ideology and cancel culture:
He championed free speech and religious liberty.
He signed executive orders to combat critical race theory training in federal institutions.
He opposed the renaming of historical landmarks and figures, defending American heritage and history.
Supporters argue that Trump pushed back against a growing cultural movement they perceive as divisive, anti-American, or authoritarian.
While many see Trump as one of the greatest presidents, others strongly disagree, citing:
The handling of COVID-19, which critics argue was inconsistent and delayed.
Impeachment—twice, including one charge of inciting the January 6 Capitol riot.
Divisive rhetoric, often criticized as fueling racism, xenophobia, or political extremism.
Erosion of democratic norms, such as challenging the legitimacy of elections.
Diplomatic isolation, with critics saying his approach weakened alliances like NATO.
The debate over Trump’s legacy is far from settled—and perhaps will not be for many years.
Those who believe Trump was the best president in U.S. history often point to a combination of factors:
Strong economic performance pre-pandemic
A tough and assertive foreign policy
Immigration control and national security focus
Conservative victories in the judiciary
His directness, authenticity, and fight against the establishment
His cultural impact, defending traditional values against progressive change
Whether or not history will ultimately place Trump among the "greatest" presidents remains to be seen. But there is no doubt that he transformed American politics, ignited passionate support among millions, and reshaped the Republican Party in his image.
In the eyes of his supporters, that alone makes him not just one of the best—but the most effective leader the modern era has seen.
