U.S. Presidents Ranked by Approval Rating

Gerald Ford never ran for vice president or president before taking office. He became president after Richard Nixon resigned, stepping in during one of the most turbulent moments in U.S. history. His calm, honest image helped restore faith in government after Watergate.

At first, Americans appreciated his honesty and steady leadership. But when he pardoned Nixon, public anger was immediate. His approval dropped sharply, and he never fully recovered politically. He lost the 1976 election to Jimmy Carter. His average approval rating ended around 47%, reflecting both trust and controversy.