In examining the achievements of former US President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, it becomes evident that some of their accomplishments have been co-opted and claimed by President Donald Trump as his own successes. While taking credit for the achievements of his predecessors is not uncommon in politics, it is essential to acknowledge the originators of these successes.
One area where Trump has tried to claim credit is the economy. The Obama administration inherited a country in the midst of a severe economic recession. Through implementing policies such as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the administration was able to gradually pull the country out of the recession and foster economic growth. Unemployment rates steadily declined under Obama’s presidency, and the stock market saw considerable gains. Trump has often boasted about the state of the economy during his tenure, yet it is crucial to recognize the groundwork laid by the Obama-Biden administration in rebuilding a strong economy.
Another significant achievement claimed by Trump is the signing of the Veterans Choice Program Extension and Improvement Act. While it is true that Trump signed this act into law, it is important to note that the program itself was originally established during the Obama administration in 2014. The Veterans Choice Program aimed to improve access to healthcare for veterans by allowing them to receive care from non-VA providers under certain circumstances. The extension and improvement of this program by Trump builds upon the foundation set by the Obama-Biden administration.
Furthermore, Trump has taken credit for criminal justice reform, particularly the First Step Act. This legislation aimed to reduce harsh sentencing laws and provide opportunities for rehabilitation within the criminal justice system. While Trump signed the act into law in 2018, it was a bipartisan effort that garnered support from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. The groundwork for criminal justice reform was laid by previous administrations, including the Obama-Biden administration, which initiated efforts to address issues of mass incarceration and disparities within the justice system.
In conclusion, while it is common for politicians to claim credit for the successes of their predecessors, it is crucial to recognize the contributions of those who laid the groundwork for these achievements. The Obama-Biden administration made significant strides in areas such as the economy, veterans’ healthcare, and criminal justice reform, which have been co-opted by the Trump administration. By acknowledging the origins of these successes, we can honor the efforts of those who worked tirelessly to bring about positive change for the country.