Throughout American history, every president has faced difficult challenges, criticism, and decisions that shaped the nation’s future.
Some leaders are remembered for their successes, while others are often judged more harshly because their time in office was marked by controversy, scandal, or policies that led to long-term problems.
Below is a more detailed look at ten U.S. presidents who frequently appear on “worst presidents” lists according to historians, political scientists, and public opinion surveys.
This list does not claim to be absolute, but reflects commonly discussed criticisms from respected historical sources.
1. Donald J. Trump (2017–2021)
Donald Trump remains one of the most polarizing figures in modern American history.
His presidency was defined by intense national division, two impeachment trials, and constant conflict with the media.
Critics argue that he mishandled several major national crises, including the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that his rhetoric increased political polarization.
His efforts to challenge the 2020 election results sparked further controversy and led to long-lasting debates about democratic norms.
2. Andrew Johnson (1865–1869)
Andrew Johnson became president after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, but he struggled to lead the country during Reconstruction.
His leniency toward former Confederate states and opposition to civil rights protections for newly freed African Americans created major political conflict.
Congress impeached him in 1868 after a bitter showdown over presidential powers, making him one of the first presidents to face such consequences.
3. James Buchanan (1857–1861)
Many historians place Buchanan near the bottom of presidential rankings because he failed to address the growing national crisis over slavery.
Instead of taking decisive action, he allowed tensions between the North and South to escalate.
His inaction contributed to the nation’s slide toward the Civil War, which began shortly after he left office.
4. Richard Nixon (1969–1974)
Richard Nixon achieved several foreign-policy successes, but his legacy was overshadowed by the Watergate scandal.
The break-in and subsequent cover-up led to criminal charges against members of his administration, and ultimately, Nixon resigned to avoid impeachment.
Watergate remains one of the biggest political scandals in American history, making Nixon’s presidency one of the most controversial.
5. George W. Bush (2001–2009)
George W. Bush’s presidency was defined by the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and controversial intelligence decisions.
Critics argue that the Iraq War was based on flawed information and caused long-term instability in the region.
Many Americans also fault his administration’s response to Hurricane Katrina, which raised questions about federal disaster management and preparedness.
6. Herbert Hoover (1929–1933)
Herbert Hoover took office just before the start of the Great Depression.
Although the economic collapse was not fully his fault, many felt his response was too slow and too limited.
His policies failed to restore confidence or provide adequate relief for struggling families.
The crisis deepened during his term, contributing to massive unemployment and hardship across the country.
7. Andrew Jackson (1829–1837)
Andrew Jackson remains a divisive figure.
While he expanded presidential power and appealed to many Americans during his lifetime, his legacy includes deeply controversial decisions.
His signing of the Indian Removal Act led to the forced relocation of Native American tribes and resulted in the tragic Trail of Tears.
These actions have left a permanent stain on his historical reputation.
8. Barack Obama (2009–2017)
Barack Obama is admired by many, yet also criticized by others who point to divisions that developed during his presidency.
Critics highlight concerns over drone warfare, foreign-policy decisions in the Middle East, and increased partisan polarization.
Supporters argue he faced unprecedented opposition, while critics believe he could have done more to unite the country.
His time in office remains one of the most debated in recent history.
9. Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969)
Lyndon Johnson accomplished historic civil rights legislation, but his legacy is overshadowed by the Vietnam War.
His administration escalated U.S. involvement, sending hundreds of thousands of troops and fueling one of the most unpopular conflicts in American history.
The war sparked nationwide protests and left deep scars on American society.
10. Jimmy Carter (1977–1981)
Jimmy Carter is widely admired as a humanitarian, but his presidency was marked by economic difficulties, including high inflation and energy shortages.
The Iran hostage crisis further weakened public confidence in his leadership.
While his post-presidential work has earned him global respect, many historians view his time in office as troubled and ineffective.
A Cautionary Reflection on Leadership
These presidents serve as reminders of how complex and challenging the role of the U.S. presidency truly is.
Leadership decisions can shape entire generations, influence global stability, and determine the direction of national values. Studying their mistakes — and their circumstances — offers valuable lessons about accountability, transparency, and the lasting consequences of presidential power.
Throughout American history, every president has faced difficult challenges, criticism, and decisions that shaped the nation’s future.
Some leaders are remembered for their successes, while others are often judged more harshly because their time in office was marked by controversy, scandal, or policies that led to long-term problems.
Below is a more detailed look at ten U.S. presidents who frequently appear on “worst presidents” lists according to historians, political scientists, and public opinion surveys.
This list does not claim to be absolute, but reflects commonly discussed criticisms from respected historical sources.
1. Donald J. Trump (2017–2021)
Donald Trump remains one of the most polarizing figures in modern American history.
His presidency was defined by intense national division, two impeachment trials, and constant conflict with the media.
Critics argue that he mishandled several major national crises, including the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that his rhetoric increased political polarization.
His efforts to challenge the 2020 election results sparked further controversy and led to long-lasting debates about democratic norms.
2. Andrew Johnson (1865–1869)
Andrew Johnson became president after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, but he struggled to lead the country during Reconstruction.
His leniency toward former Confederate states and opposition to civil rights protections for newly freed African Americans created major political conflict.
Congress impeached him in 1868 after a bitter showdown over presidential powers, making him one of the first presidents to face such consequences.
3. James Buchanan (1857–1861)
Many historians place Buchanan near the bottom of presidential rankings because he failed to address the growing national crisis over slavery.
Instead of taking decisive action, he allowed tensions between the North and South to escalate.
His inaction contributed to the nation’s slide toward the Civil War, which began shortly after he left office.
4. Richard Nixon (1969–1974)
Richard Nixon achieved several foreign-policy successes, but his legacy was overshadowed by the Watergate scandal.
The break-in and subsequent cover-up led to criminal charges against members of his administration, and ultimately, Nixon resigned to avoid impeachment.
Watergate remains one of the biggest political scandals in American history, making Nixon’s presidency one of the most controversial.
5. George W. Bush (2001–2009)
George W. Bush’s presidency was defined by the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and controversial intelligence decisions.
Critics argue that the Iraq War was based on flawed information and caused long-term instability in the region.
Many Americans also fault his administration’s response to Hurricane Katrina, which raised questions about federal disaster management and preparedness.
6. Herbert Hoover (1929–1933)
Herbert Hoover took office just before the start of the Great Depression.
Although the economic collapse was not fully his fault, many felt his response was too slow and too limited.
His policies failed to restore confidence or provide adequate relief for struggling families.
The crisis deepened during his term, contributing to massive unemployment and hardship across the country.
7. Andrew Jackson (1829–1837)
Andrew Jackson remains a divisive figure.
While he expanded presidential power and appealed to many Americans during his lifetime, his legacy includes deeply controversial decisions.
His signing of the Indian Removal Act led to the forced relocation of Native American tribes and resulted in the tragic Trail of Tears.
These actions have left a permanent stain on his historical reputation.
8. Barack Obama (2009–2017)
Barack Obama is admired by many, yet also criticized by others who point to divisions that developed during his presidency.
Critics highlight concerns over drone warfare, foreign-policy decisions in the Middle East, and increased partisan polarization.
Supporters argue he faced unprecedented opposition, while critics believe he could have done more to unite the country.
His time in office remains one of the most debated in recent history.
9. Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969)
Lyndon Johnson accomplished historic civil rights legislation, but his legacy is overshadowed by the Vietnam War.
His administration escalated U.S. involvement, sending hundreds of thousands of troops and fueling one of the most unpopular conflicts in American history.
The war sparked nationwide protests and left deep scars on American society.
10. Jimmy Carter (1977–1981)
Jimmy Carter is widely admired as a humanitarian, but his presidency was marked by economic difficulties, including high inflation and energy shortages.
The Iran hostage crisis further weakened public confidence in his leadership.
While his post-presidential work has earned him global respect, many historians view his time in office as troubled and ineffective.
A Cautionary Reflection on Leadership
These presidents serve as reminders of how complex and challenging the role of the U.S. presidency truly is.
Leadership decisions can shape entire generations, influence global stability, and determine the direction of national values. Studying their mistakes — and their circumstances — offers valuable lessons about accountability, transparency, and the lasting consequences of presidential power.