As the political landscape continues to shift, a stark contrast between the last two administrations becomes increasingly apparent. With President Biden facing a current approval rating of 41% heading into his second State of the Union address, one can’t help but notice the comparison to former President Trump, who sits at 36%. While these numbers may suggest Biden has maintained a slightly stronger public image, a deeper dive into the circumstances surrounding their presidencies reveals a more intricate story.

In early 2022, just before Biden’s second year speech, the nation was grappling with soaring inflation, which had reached a staggering 7.9%. This figure seemed to alarm countless Americans as prices for everyday goods continued to climb. On the flip side, Trump’s presidency was marked by a relatively stable inflation rate of just under 2.5%—less than a third of Biden’s inflation levels. It begs the question: How can voters feel more favorable towards a president presiding over such escalating economic woes?

The political fallout from Biden’s withdrawal from Afghanistan certainly contributed to the issues plaguing his approval ratings. Just five months prior to that State of the Union, the chaotic exit left many Americans disheartened after the tragic loss of 13 service members. Events like Biden checking his watch during a dignified transfer of the fallen soldiers seemed to illustrate a disconnect between the administration and the hardships inflicted upon military families. Furthermore, the decision left behind a shocking $80 billion worth of military equipment, which swiftly fell into the hands of the Taliban. These actions raised eyebrows and concerns regarding national security.

Now, let’s shift our gaze to Trump. Just before his own second State of the Union speech, he had successfully executed a daring operation that saw the removal of a dictator who was not just oppressing his people but also colluding with China to elevate tensions near U.S. soil in Venezuela. This operation, notably carried out without a single American casualty, not only showcased strategic military prowess but also highlighted an era when U.S. foreign policy was driven by decisive actions and bold moves.

Trump’s time in office was peppered with a series of peace deals that reshaped international relations, from ceasefires in Gaza to negotiations in regions like Armenia, Azerbaijan, and even between Israel and Iran. He worked tirelessly to seal agreements that aimed to reduce tensions worldwide, and his efforts to secure the border seemed to impress a significant portion of the electorate, showcasing a commitment to American sovereignty right from the start of his administration.

So, as these two political giants face off in a battle of approvals, it becomes clear that the metrics of success in leadership extend far beyond mere approval ratings. The circumstances surrounding each presidency tell a compelling story—one of economic challenges, international operations, and the choices made during moments of crisis. While voters may currently favor Biden just a notch higher, history—and the nuanced understanding of each administration’s actions—will ultimately render the true verdict on their impacts.