U.S. Presidents Ranked by Approval Rating

George W. Bush won the 2000 election after a controversial vote recount in Florida that was ultimately decided by the Supreme Court. Running as a “compassionate conservative,” he promised to restore integrity and unity after the Clinton years. His down-to-earth style and message of faith helped him connect with voters.

At first, Bush’s approval ratings were modest. But after the September 11 attacks in 2001, his popularity soared to a record 90%. The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq later eroded that support, and by the time he left office in 2009, his approval had fallen to 34%, averaging around 49% overall.