Presidential Leadership and Democratic Distemper in an Age of Globalization

• In Event: The Historical Presidency, Populism, and Politics

Abstract

In presidential leadership, context matters. As we move further into an age of technological disruptions, hyper-change, and globalization, the context in which presidents operate will have an increasingly pronounced effect setting parameters for presidential leadership. As national leaders and nations themselves confront new challenges brought on by globalization (e.g., reactionary populist movements, anti-immigration pressures, economic discontent of those left behind), the ability of presidents to deliver on promises and public expectations will be severely constrained. How can presidents deal with this new and challenging environment? This paper will explore the root causes and possible avenues out of this dilemma, arguing that presidents will be less able to command, and will need to develop skills in "leveraging" leadership cooperatively with other leaders, nations, and non-governmental groups. The age of the "imperial leader" is waning, and a new age of cooperative international leveraged leadership is on the horizon. To solve vexing problems from climate change, to pandemics, to poverty, to nuclear proliferation, and a host of other issues, the new model of leadership will require greater international cooperation. Of course, this may not be popular with citizens accustomed to advancing an "America First" approach. Can the president actually "lead" us into this more complex future? This paper attempts to answer that question.

Author

• Michael A. Genovese, Loyola Marymount University