U.S. Presidents Ranked by Approval Rating

Lyndon B. Johnson became president after John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, then won the 1964 election in a landslide. His “Great Society” vision promised civil rights, education reform, and a war on poverty. His political skill and charm helped him pass massive social programs that changed American life.

At first, Johnson was one of the most popular presidents ever, with approval ratings over 75%. But as the Vietnam War dragged on and anti-war protests grew, public opinion turned sharply against him. His approval sank below 40%, and he chose not to run for re-election in 1968.