Originally <a href='/showthread.php?p=16668428'>posted</a> on 11/06/2012:

Analzying presidential performance is very complicated. The two biggest factors which make this task difficult are:

1) Our system of checks and balances limits the power of any one branch or person. While a good system for balancing power and influence, it often transforms and inhibits a President's true vision for out country. It exteme cases President's are stuck in gridlock and constant compromise, never able to achieve their agendas.

2) Another key in determing a President's legacy is the delayed impact of policies and decisions. These effects are two fold. Incoming Presidents are often forced to deal with issues such as tax structures, wars, or other policies which were determined by the exiting President.

Often the impact of the former President is felt for years after his departure, and a legacy which the incoming president must either fix or bask in the success. Furthermore, the policies and accomplishments of any President are not fully understood until years after he leaves office and his policies' impacts are able to manifest.