I was going to make a case for Johnson or Bush if we sort of assume recency is an important factor in "worst". As in most of the ill effects of previous presidents have probably petered out over time. But then, yes, you have FDR and Wilson (and Lincoln).
It's one of those situations where the exercise is sort of pointless. I think the mental energy might be better spent by flipping it around a bit... Has there ever been a strongly net-positive US President? I think perhaps only if you go back to the first dozen or so do you have a chance.
I was going to make a case for Johnson or Bush if we sort of assume recency is an important factor in "worst". As in most of the ill effects of previous presidents have probably petered out over time. But then, yes, you have FDR and Wilson (and Lincoln).
It's one of those situations where the exercise is sort of pointless. I think the mental energy might be better spent by flipping it around a bit... Has there ever been a strongly net-positive US President? I think perhaps only if you go back to the first dozen or so do you have a chance.
(post is archived)