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Article
The Dynamics of Presidential Legacies
Conference Papers - Southern Political Science Association
  • Sean J. Byrne, Indiana University
  • Justin S. Vaughn, Boise State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2016
Disciplines
Abstract

It has been said that one of the few things you can’t do in life a second time is to make a first impression; however, in politics, and especially presidential politics, while it may not be possible to change that first impression, it is possible to change the public’s opinion, and how one might be perceived long after their political career is over. The 43 men who have been the U.S president have been analyzed and scrutinized throughout their lives and political careers. Prior to running for president, they establish a resume that puts them in the public eye. Later, during their campaign, the American public decides whether they have the confidence in the candidate to entrust them with the duties as president. While in office, they are evaluated daily by the press and news media along with the onslaught of polls measuring the publics’ satisfaction, or dissatisfaction, with their performance. The evaluations while in office offer them the opportunity to see how “well” they are doing, and also provide insights as to whether they may or may not be residing in the White House at the end of their first term.

Copyright Statement

This document was originally published in Conference Papers - Southern Political Science Association by the Southern Political Science Assocation. Copyright restrictions may apply.

Citation Information
Sean J. Byrne and Justin S. Vaughn. "The Dynamics of Presidential Legacies" Conference Papers - Southern Political Science Association (2016)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/justin_vaughn/40/