Though separated by nearly two centuries, the presidencies of Andrew Jackson and Donald Trump reveal striking parallels in their populist rhetoric, combative relationships with institutions, and the deeply divided times they governed. As Donald Trump continues to serve in his second term, comparisons to Jackson — America's original populist president — have become even harder to ignore.
Populist Appeal, Antiestablishment Rhetoric
Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States (1829–1837), positioned himself as a defender of the "common man." A revered war hero, he was a populist who believed in "the people" and rose to power by rallying ordinary citizens against the political and financial elite.
His dismantling of the Second Bank of the United States was a symbolic and practical move against entrenched privilege.
Donald Trump's political rise has followed a strikingly similar path. From his 2016 campaign through to his current second term, Trump is the consummate outsider battling a corrupt political establishment.
His blistering rhetoric, promising to "drain the swamp" and put Americans first, has resonated and propelled him to the White House twice by connecting with voters who feel alienated by globalization and traditional party politics. Like Jackson, Trump speaks directly to the disenfranchised, eager to upend the status quo.
Nationalism, Protectionist Policies
Both leaders governed with an intense focus on nationalism. Jackson championed American expansionism and federal unity, like his handling of the Nullification Crisis and the Indian Removal Act — policies designed to consolidate power and assert national and executive authority.
Trump in his second term continues to emphasize his "America First" doctrine. He has aggressively asserted American positions on the economy and the cudgel of tariffs, attacked the illegal immigration crisis, and put Europe on notice that it has to do better.
Both Jackson and Trump energized their supporters by giving voice to those who felt forgotten and ignored.
Contempt for Established Institutions
Jackson's battle with the Second Bank of the United States highlighted his deep distrust of centralized financial institutions. He believed the bank served only the elite and was incompatible with the principles of democracy, ultimately refusing to renew its charter and redistributing federal funds to local banking institutions.
Trump has had a similarly adversarial relationship with the established institutions, repeatedly calling them out as part of a corrupt system working against the American people. His efforts to challenge and reshape institutional norms have been a hallmark of both his first and current terms in office.
Polarizing Times, Divided Nations
Beyond their leadership styles, Jackson and Trump both governed during periods of extraordinary polarization and societal upheaval. Jackson presided over a young and expanding republic grappling with sectional tensions, the rise of frontier populism, and fierce debates over federal power.
Likewise, Trump's ascension to the presidency is in an era of cultural, political, and economic division. Partisan media, an oligarchic elite, racial tensions, and rapid technological change have created a highly volatile political atmosphere.
The COVID-19 pandemic, global conflicts, and debates over voting rights and democracy have only intensified the divisions across the country.
In both periods, national identity and direction have been central to the political discourse.
Media Strategy, Public Messaging
Jackson used the emerging national press of his time to build support against the elite, setting a precedent for direct engagement with the public through media.
For his part, Trump has revolutionized presidential communication in the digital age. Through social media platforms like his Truth Social, he bypasses traditional media to speak directly to his base.
His real-time commentary, often unfiltered and provocative, has changed the expectations and standards for political messaging in the 21st century — just as Jackson did in the 19th.
Economic Populism, Policy
Andrew Jackson's economic legacy is marked by his bold opposition to the national bank and his unwavering support for agrarian and populist interests. Championing the common man, Jackson promoted a more decentralized and democratic financial system.
His policies empowered ordinary citizens and reinforced the values of economic independence and self-reliance, leaving a lasting impact on American democracy.
Similarly, Trump's economic vision has centered on bold deregulation, historic tax reform, and strategic tariffs aimed at revitalizing American industry. The goal of his America-first policies is to energize the economy and prioritize the interests of working-class citizens, as he continues to champion a robust, self-reliant U.S. economy.
Impact on Political Parties
Jackson's presidency helped establish the modern Democratic Party, uniting a coalition of southern and western populists. His influence reshaped the political system of his time, with party loyalty and mass voter mobilization becoming more central to American politics.
Trump's ongoing influence over the Republican Party has been equally transformative. His populist-nationalist vision has realigned the party's base, brought new voters into the fold, and forced internal debates over the future of conservatism in the U.S.
Whether Trumpism remains a dominant force postpresidency remains to be seen — but its imprint is undeniable.
In their defiance of the elite and appeal to the common citizen, both Jackson and Trump stand as strikingly parallel figures — proof that the forces of populism, once awakened, never truly disappear but return with renewed intensity and unmistakable power.
Robert Chernin is a business leader, political adviser, and podcast host. He has been a consultant on presidential, senatorial, congressional, and gubernatorial races, including roles in the campaigns of George W. Bush and John McCain. Robert serves as chairman of Israel Appreciation Day, American Center for Education and Knowledge, and The American Coalition. Read more here.
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