1866’s Lesson for 2026

In this Election Day edition of Time-Travel Thursdays, we explore E. P. Whipple's scathing critique of President Andrew Johnson from September 1866, amid a tumultuous midterm election. Whipple portrays Johnson as a dangerous blend of demagogue and autocrat, whose attempts to rally support for Reconstruction policies backfired spectacularly. As parallels to contemporary politics emerge, Whipple's insights resonate with today's political climate, highlighting the enduring struggles between executive ambition and legislative authority.