The Realignment 552 | Mark K. Updegrove: Presidential Character & the Weight of History - What Makes a Good President?
May 20, 2025
Mark K. Updegrove, President and CEO of the LBJ Foundation and author, dives deep into the character of U.S. presidents. He discusses the importance of seeing political leaders through a lens of growth and complexity rather than cynicism. Highlighting figures like Barack Obama and Ronald Reagan, Updegrove unveils how even flawed leaders impart valuable lessons. He examines pivotal moments like Gerald Ford’s pardon of Nixon and the evolving perception of presidential legacies, emphasizing the impact of character on national discourse and identity.
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Complexity of Presidential Character
- Politicians, especially presidents, are complex individuals with lessons in character and leadership to teach.
- Even flawed leaders can exhibit traits worth admiring and emulating.
Presidential Character's Core Test
- The greatest test for any president is love for country and putting national interests first.
- All seven presidents studied met this test, underscoring a core American expectation of leadership.
Ford's Unelected Presidency Start
- Ford was the only unelected president, becoming vice president after Agnew's resignation and then president after Nixon's resignation.
- His presidency was immediately burdened by Watergate's aftermath and economic issues.
