Who is the best US president who lived true to the democratic spirit of the American constitution ?

Question

At one time the USA and democracy were taken as two synonymous entities. Can any one take comfort in the ever deteriorating situation.

Answer 1

Without a doubt, it would have to be George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson in a three-way tie. Washington and Adams were responsible for one of the first peaceful transfers of power the world had ever seen. The leadership of an entire nation was changed without a shot being fired. It means very little now, but at the time it was a big deal.

Jefferson showed his respect for the Constitution when he yielded to the Supreme Court in their Marbury v Madison decision. Had he wanted to, he could have easily ignored their decision and basically made the Supreme Court completely powerless. Oh, and yes, he did indeed yield to the Supreme Court. They have to rely on the Executive branch to enforce their rulings. Had he chosen, he could have simply ignored them and no one would have thought twice about it.

Answer 2

I would say FDR, he helped millions get back on there feet after the depression. He lived true to the constitution because he did not what the constitution told him to do, but what it told him not to do. Although later some of his bills were found to be unconstitutional he did things his own way and got America out of a situation that Hoover couldn't. He also stood tall when we were attacked on our own soil and continued to fight till we won WWII. I would argue that he is one of the best presidents of the 20th century. Also I would argue that his first lady was the best of the 20th century possible ever!

Answer 3

Thomas Jefferson

Answer 4

I would suggest Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison since they were two who wrote much of it. As times change, and circumstances change the Constitution is pushed and pulled in different directions. We have a Supreme Court whose job it is to keep the executive and legislative brances from straying.

Answer 5

There has never been one of these creatures and probably never will be.
I like Phillip McCrevice's idea the best - get rid of Congress and let everyone vote on the important issues which effect us all. In fact, get rid of the Executive Branch as well, as it seems to always get filled by worthless greedy corporate execs who could care less about the average Joe Blow. It's all Hollywood glamor and showbiz Ameriacn Idol nonsense anyway...

Oh, by the way Tina, the name is spelled Reagan, not Regan...

Answer 6

I'm going to say Lincoln. Even though he used extensive powers during the Civil War (including the suspension of habeas corpus), I think he really tried to discharge his oath of office during a period when that must have been an awfully difficult chore.

Answer 7

John Adams.

Answer 8

We have always been a Republic.

Otherwise, let's get rid of Congress and have every bill up for vote on www.pollingreport.com

Answer 9

Regan and of course GW, TJ and so on.

Answer 10

FDR?