Donald Trump vs. Barack Obama: A Comparison

Donald J. Trump, a Republican, served as the 45th U.S. president from 2017 to 2021. On the other hand, Barack H. Obama, a Democrat, was the 44th president from 2009 to 2017. Let's take a look at their policies in various critical economic areas.

Defense Spending

Both presidents allocated significant resources to defense. Trump budgeted a total of $989 billion for military spending in Fiscal Year 2020. Meanwhile, Obama eliminated Osama bin Laden, withdrew troops from the Iraq War, and wound down the war in Afghanistan.

Recession Recovery

Trump won the 2016 election with promises of economic growth, but faced a recession in February 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Obama used expansionary fiscal policy, signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and bailed out the U.S. auto industry during the 2008-2009 recession.

Health Care

Trump focused on weakening the Affordable Care Act, while Obama signed the ACA into law to reduce healthcare costs, provide insurance for everyone, and slow the rise of national healthcare costs.

Trade Policies

Trump favored bilateral agreements and trade protectionism, while Obama negotiated the Trans-Pacific Partnership and other bilateral agreements to promote free trade.

Regulatory Measures

Obama signed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act to regulate financial companies and prevent another financial crisis. Trump sought to repeal Dodd-Frank and ease regulations on small banks.

Deficit and National Debt

Both presidents ran up record-setting budget deficits. Obama's stimulus plan led to the largest deficit in U.S. history, while Trump's tax cuts did not reduce debt or the deficit.

Climate Change

Obama led efforts to finalize the Paris Climate Agreement, enacted carbon reduction regulations, and encouraged renewable energy. Trump withdrew from the agreement and rolled back Obama-era climate policies.