Leaders frequently forge their reputations in crises. In normal times, competition for the public’s attention is fierce. Crises, by contrast, put leaders at the center of our focus. Almost every eye is firmly fixed on them. …
In the midst of World War II, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s approval rating soared to 93 percent. President George H.W. Bush’s hit 89 percent, up some 35 points, during the Gulf War, while his son’s approval rating vaulted about 40 points, peaking at a Churchillian 92 percent, just after Sept. 11. …
Against this background, President Trump’s brief and meager gains during the COVID- 19 crisis are truly stunning. Most other leaders are rising in public esteem. Not Trump. CONT.
Mark Mellman (Mellman Group), The Hill