
From 1933 to 1953 we only had two presidents… So we naturally ranked them. When FDR came into office the country was looking bleak, there was a steady economic decline into the Great Depression that could have inspired a revolution. Instead, FDR maintains our democracy but grows the federal government like no other. Sean points how FDR was more moderate than perceived and Jay calls him a Wilsonian progressive but both see FDR as a defender of the republic. Following FDR, Truman "slips into place" as a wartime president but leaves with shockingly low approval ratings. However, Truman’s commitment to civil rights and strong opposition to communism may be his saving grace.Remember to rate and follow Stubborn Things and stay up to date by following us on X @aei_STpodcast.Comments? Suggestions? Email us at StubbornThings@aei.org.
Podzilla Summary coming soon
Sign up to get notified when the full AI-powered summary is ready.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.

The Perils of Predicting

Why Congress: An interview with Philip Wallach

The Rise of the Kooks, the Fall of the Gatekeepers

What our founders would love…and what they’d loathe in 2026
Free AI-powered recaps of Stubborn Things and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.