Trump vs. FDR? Ranking the Most Consequential Presidents of the Last Century

Michael Smerconish asks a provocative question: Is Donald Trump the most consequential president of the last 100 years? To explore it, he’s joined by presidential scholar Dr. Michael Genovese, author of more than 50 books on leadership and American politics. Together they examine Trump’s impact on the presidency, executive power, immigration, the courts, and America’s role in the world—while comparing his legacy to presidents like FDR, LBJ, Reagan, and Obama. Is Trump a transformational figure who reshaped politics—or a disruptor whose changes could be undone? And what actually defines a consequential presidency? Listen here, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Original air date 19 February 2026.