U.S. Presidents Ranked by Approval Rating

Bill Clinton won the 1992 election by focusing on the economy and promising to represent ordinary Americans. His message of “a new beginning” appealed to voters tired of recession and political bickering. His charm, energy, and ability to connect personally helped him defeat incumbent president George H. W. Bush.

At first, Clinton’s approval was shaky as he faced scandals and criticism. But strong economic growth soon turned things around. By his second term, unemployment was low and optimism was high. Despite impeachment in 1998, his approval soared to 73%, finishing with an average near 55%, among the highest in decades.