Megan Gorman, author of 'All the Presidents' Money', discusses how FDR handled money, Reagan's financial impact from humble beginnings, and why a Great Depression president excelled at investing.
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Quick takeaways
Presidents managed personal expenses despite varying salaries.
Thomas Jefferson's financial struggles stemmed from lack of discipline and planning.
Deep dives
Financial Challenges of Presidents as Salary Differences Evolved
Presidents have faced evolving financial challenges as their salaries changed over time. From George Washington earning $25,000 to Joe Biden's $400,000, presidents must cover personal expenses including food, gifts, and private events. Despite the increase in salary, they face financial responsibilities like managing the White House's expenses.
Thomas Jefferson's Financial Struggles and Debt Legacy
Thomas Jefferson, known for the Declaration of Independence, struggled with personal finances. Inheriting a vast estate at a young age, he lacked financial discipline, leading to significant debt. Jefferson's failure to plan for the future left him in financial turmoil, eventually resulting in auctions of prized possessions like Monticello.
FDR's Wealth Origins, Trust Fund Status, and Charitable Efforts
Franklin Delano Roosevelt's wealth stemmed from trust funds inherited from his mother, a significant source of his financial resources. Despite being a trust fund kid, FDR engaged in risky investments like dirgeables and lobster distribution. His battle with polio shifted his focus to philanthropy, leading to funding initiatives such as the March of Dimes for polio vaccine development.
Reagan knew how to budget. Jefferson knew how to party.
Megan Gorman is the author of the upcoming book, “All the Presidents' Money: How the Men Who Governed America Governed Their Money.” Gorman is also the founding partner of Chequers Financial Management Robert Brokamp caught up with Gorman for a conversation about:
- What FDR, a “bit of a trust fund kid,” did if he needed money.
- How Ronald Reagan’s humble beginnings impacted his finances.
- Why a Great Depression president was a great investor.