Daniel Rey

Can Republicans be trusted with the US economy?

Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Michigan (Getty)

When it comes to the economy, Americans typically trust the Republicans. They’re the party traditionally aligned with big capital; and their policies – low taxes and minimal government interference – sound sweet in a believer’s ear. Donald Trump, leading the GOP for the third election in a row, is a famous businessman; and the party’s previous nominee, back in 2012, was Mitt Romney – the co-founder of one of the largest private equity firms in the world. The Republicans, you might think, are a safe pair of hands. However, despite the Republicans prioritising the economy, it’s the Democrats who have the far superior record.

Of the eleven recessions since World War II, ten have begun under the Republicans

Of the eleven recessions since World War II, ten have begun under the Republicans. That doesn’t include the Great Depression, which started under Herbert Hoover (Republican) and was resolved by Franklin Roosevelt (Democrat). 

When it comes to unemployment, historically things don’t look much rosier for the Republicans.

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