Whether Joe Biden was a “good president” depends a lot on what criteria you value most—economic performance, foreign policy, social issues, leadership style, or political unity. Historians and political scientists generally evaluate presidents across several dimensions, and Biden’s record has both notable achievements and major criticisms.

Here’s a balanced overview:

Major accomplishments supporters point to

• Economic recovery after COVID-19: Biden oversaw continued recovery from the pandemic recession, with strong job growth and low unemployment during much of his term.

• Infrastructure investment: The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funded roads, bridges, broadband, transit, and energy systems.

• Industrial policy: Laws like the CHIPS and Science Act and Inflation Reduction Act aimed to boost U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy, and domestic industry.

• NATO and Ukraine: Many allies praised his administration for rebuilding alliances and coordinating Western support for Ukraine after Russia’s 2022 invasion.

• Climate policy: The Inflation Reduction Act included the largest federal climate-related investment package in U.S. history.

Major criticisms opponents point to

• Inflation: Although inflation had global causes after the pandemic, critics argue Biden’s spending policies worsened rising prices that hurt consumers.

• Border and immigration issues: His administration faced heavy criticism over illegal crossings and border management.

• Afghanistan withdrawal: The 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan was widely criticized for its chaotic execution.

• Political polarization: Critics say he failed to reduce national division despite campaigning on unity.

• Concerns about age and communication: Questions about Biden’s age, stamina, and public performances became a major political issue.

How historians may view him

It’s still early for a definitive historical ranking. Presidents are often reassessed years after leaving office. Some scholars think Biden could be remembered for major industrial and infrastructure legislation; others think inflation, immigration problems, and public concerns about leadership may weigh heavily against him.

So the short answer is:

• If you prioritize infrastructure spending, alliance-building, climate action, and post-pandemic recovery, you may see Biden as successful.

• If you prioritize inflation control, border security, or stronger executive leadership image, you may judge his presidency negatively.

Reasonable people disagree because “good president” is partly a factual question and partly a values-based one.