In recent discussions about political legacy, former President Donald Trump has made frequent comparisons between himself and Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Trump’s assertions range from claiming superiority over Lincoln to presenting himself as a victim of political mistreatment comparable to Lincoln’s experiences. In a December 2022 video introducing his digital trading cards, he boldly stated, “hopefully your favorite president of all time, better than Lincoln, better than Washington.” This kind of rhetoric illustrates a curious election strategy, underscoring Trump’s desire for historical validation as he campaigns for the presidency once more. Throughout various appearances, he invoked Lincoln when criticizing figures like Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris, suggesting a decline from Lincoln’s ideals of leadership to the current political landscape.
Trump’s admiration for Lincoln appears erratic; his comments swing from praise to doubt regarding pivotal issues such as the Civil War. For example, in a recent interview, he questioned why the Civil War was not resolved peacefully, reflecting his frequent theme that he could have managed foreign conflicts like Ukraine and Israel differently. Notably, his interpretation of history often lacks nuance, according to experts like Harold Holzer, a noted Lincoln biographer. Many political figures have found ways to acknowledge Lincoln, but they usually do so without the stark self-comparisons that characterize Trump’s rhetoric and frequently mix grievances with his self-promoting narratives.
Trump’s continual reference to Lincoln seems to stem from a desire to connect with voters by invoking a universally respected figure. Unlike other political leaders who have, at times, approached the comparison with caution and humility, Trump’s method appears less subtle. The blending of personal anecdotes and political commentary has fostered a “weave” narrative style that many find distinctive but lacking in depth. This trend diverges from how past leaders like Barack Obama approached Lincoln’s legacy, emphasizing unity and the nation’s shared values inspired by Lincoln. Historical references typically aim to find common ground; Trump’s interpretations often present a more confrontational view that aligns Lincoln’s legacy with his own grievances against contemporary political figures and administrations.
The complex relationship Trump maintains with Lincoln, as political scholars point out, arguably serves as a tool for constructing his legacy amidst contrasting perceptions. Comparatively, Lincoln’s significant contributions, most notably the Emancipation Proclamation and the passage of the 13th Amendment, place him in a league that Trump cannot claim affiliation with, despite his assertions of having achieved important strides for Black Americans during his presidency such as criminal justice reform. Scholars like Daina Ramey Berry emphasize that Lincoln’s stature as “The Great Emancipator” cannot be compared with Trump’s initiatives, arguing that Lincoln’s actions symbolized a profound moral and political commitment to abolishing slavery and uniting the nation.
The way Trump engages with Lincoln’s legacy highlights a broader pattern of political leaders referencing their predecessors to enhance their public images while navigating the complexities of historical narratives. Trump’s fixation on contrasting himself with Lincoln is indicative of his political strategy, as he aims to establish a foundation for his own legacy amid historically unfavorable comparisons. As political scholars, including Justin Vaughn, suggest, this approach reflects a distinct form of bravado in Trump’s persona, amplifying traits of his negotiations and outlook in ways that diverge from Lincoln’s canonically revered qualities. The examination of this comparison reveals a tension between historical reverence and political ambition, marking a notable departure from the nuanced reflections on leadership exhibited by earlier presidents.
Overall, Trump’s engagement with Lincoln represents more than mere nostalgia—it reflects a desperate attempt to claim moral superiority and entwine his personal legacy with that of one of the nation’s most revered leaders. Whether or not this tactic resonates with voters remains to be seen, yet it poses the question of what historical lessons Trump chooses to embody—or disregard—while forging his path in contemporary American politics. The enduring shadow of Lincoln continues to challenge modern political figures, urging them to grapple with not just the legacies they wish to inherit but also the weight of a democratic narrative shaped by sacrifice, unity, and transformative leadership. In a time when national discourse often fractures along divisive lines, the legacy of leaders like Lincoln offers crucial insight into the values of reconciliation and collective purpose that transcend individual ambitions.
