At the Monthly today, Ed Kilgore wanders down memory lane for the holiday with reflections on the Presidents who have served in his lifetime. My first reaction upon reading his post was, Damn, I must be getting old if a quarter of our nation's chief executives have served during my lifetime. But it's true, starting at Ike and proceeding to Hussein. Anyway, to honor America, here are some random takes on each of the Executive Eleven---with at least one kudo for each of them---who have helmed the Republic for the past 55 years on our long, excruciating descent into sclerotic empire.
Best: LBJ. Even with Vietnam, the legislative legacy is staggering.
Worst: Guess.
Most underrated: Carter.
Most overrated: He who belongs on Mt. Rushmore.
Most overvalued: JFK. Too many unanswered questions, especially on Vietnam.
Most undervalued: Eisenhower. He'd likely be a Blue Dog Democrat today.
Most forgettable: President WIN button.
Least forgettable: I am not a crook.
Most charismatic: Obama.
Least charismatic: G.H.W. Bush.
Most likable: Clinton.
Least likable: Every Republican President since Eisenhower.
Okay, those are my picks. Readers, have at them.
---Vitelius
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