Presidents have sought to expand their connections with the people as a source of power. By “Going Public” presidents make appeals for public support in an effort to build a popular coalition for their policies. By some measures presidents have increasingly, almost desperately, resorted to this tool. Matthew Eshbaugh-Soha describes it as the “preeminent governing strategy of modern presidents.” Herbert Hoover (1929-31), Franklin Roosevelt (19333-35) and Harry Truman (1945-47) all made fewer than 20 public appearances during the first two years of their terms. By contrast, George W. Bush and Barack Obama both made more than 250 public appearances. Although there are various interpretations of this increase in activity, it isn’t clear it has helped presidents or the presidency that much, as presidential engagement can lead to polarization and even undermine deliberation.

Presidential popularity has by no means been assured by high levels of activity. And in the absence of popularity or public support it isn’t clear that any amount of going public is likely to offer much power or influence in Washington. Take a look at the historical presidential approval rating trends the Gallup organization has made available at http://www.gallup.com/poll/116677/presidential-approval-ratings-gallup-historical-statistics-trends.aspx. One of the main trends that is readily apparent is that most presidents (Bill Clinton is perhaps the only exception) tend to become less popular as their time in office wears on.

For a compilation of polling on the Trump presidency check out https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/trump-approval-ratings/ When presidents are unpopular, it become harder for them to find allies and persuade.