[“What are some of the things a really great president would do at this moment in U.S. history?”]
Google AI Overview
A “great president” in the United States today, in August 2025, would likely focus on several critical issues and demonstrate specific leadership qualities, given the current domestic and international landscape
Here’s a breakdown of potential actions and qualities:
Addressing Key Challenges
- Economic Issues: Tackle inflation and rising living costs, which Americans view as a top concern. Pew Research Center data shows 63% see inflation as a very big problem. The president would need to address the rising national debt, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget currently exceeding $36 trillion. Finding solutions to control corporate greed and exploitation of vulnerable populations is also expected, according to Quora users.
- Political Divisions: Work towards bridging the partisan divide and promoting cooperation between Republicans and Democrats, notes the Pew Research Center. Address the erosion of trust in the federal government and businesses by demonstrating responsible leadership and accountability, says Gallup.
- Social & Cultural Issues: Confront social and cultural divisions, potentially stemming from the ongoing “culture wars” surrounding identity, race, and gender, according to ABC News.
- Foreign Policy & Geopolitics: Navigate a complex and increasingly dangerous global landscape. Manage the US role in international conflicts and disputes, and potentially reshape trade relationships through diplomatic means or tariffs. AInvest highlights how the US public’s view of Israel’s military actions has shifted, leading to scrutiny of defense contractors and potentially influencing investment flows. Sidley Austin LLP reports that trade agreements are being used to achieve broader diplomatic goals.
Demonstrating Leadership Qualities
- Unifying & Inclusive: Work to represent all Americans, not just a particular party or demographic, and unify the nation, according to Learning for Justice.
- Decisive & Bold: Make informed decisions quickly and confidently.
- Ethical & Moral: Operate with a strong moral code and prioritize the well-being of others.
- Empathetic & Understanding: Demonstrate empathy for the struggles of ordinary Americans.
- Pragmatic & Compromising: Be willing to compromise and prioritize the country’s betterment over partisan interests.
- Knowledgeable & Prepared: Possess a deep understanding of the economy, foreign policy, and American history.
- Team Builder & Listener: Surround themselves with diverse and experienced advisors and be open to different perspectives.
In essence, a great president in this moment in US history would likely be a unifying leader focused on addressing the nation’s economic and social challenges while navigating complex geopolitical issues with a strong moral compass and a willingness to work collaboratively.
Addressing Economic Inequality
- Progressive Taxation and Redistribution:
- Increase the minimum wage: A direct and efficient way to boost income for low-wage earners, potentially stimulating the economy by increasing demand for goods and services.
- Expand tax credits: Programs like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) can provide income support to low-income families and individuals.
- Implement wealth and inheritance taxes: Taxing accumulated wealth and inheritances can reduce the concentration of wealth at the top and fund public services.
- Reform wealth-building policies: Make homeownership tax subsidies more progressive and promote retirement savings through programs like automatic IRAs and the reauthorized Assets for Independence program.
- Investments in Human Capital and Opportunity:
- Improve access to high-quality education and training: Expand apprenticeships, early childhood education, and make higher education more affordable, particularly for low-wealth families.
- Strengthen social safety net programs: Provide robust unemployment insurance and cash assistance to support vulnerable populations.
- Invest in infrastructure: Create jobs and stimulate economic growth in disadvantaged areas through investments in roads, bridges, and broadband internet access.
- Address discrimination: Stronger enforcement of anti-discrimination laws in hiring, promotion, and pay can reduce race and gender inequalities.
[Oh, and no more arms to Israel toot suite! –m.z.]
