The United States has had several presidents who served two terms, demonstrating sustained leadership and the ability to secure re-election.
These leaders navigated pivotal moments in American history, from the nation’s founding to economic crises, wars, and social transformations.
While some served consecutive terms, others, like Grover Cleveland and Donald Trump, returned to office after losing an election. The ability to win a second term often reflects political resilience, public approval, and a lasting impact on national and global affairs.
Richard Nixon was elected to two terms but did not complete his second term. He was re-elected in 1972 but resigned in 1974 due to the Watergate scandal. Because of this, he is not considered a two-term president in the same sense as others who served two full terms.
Here’s how Nixon’s presidency played out:
- First term: January 20, 1969 – January 20, 1973
- Re-elected: November 7, 1972
- Second term (partial): January 20, 1973 – August 9, 1974 (resigned)
- Succeeded by: Vice President Gerald Ford, who took office after Nixon’s resignation.
So, while Nixon won two elections, he did not serve two full terms.
Below is a closer look at the U.S. presidents who served two terms, highlighting their key accomplishments, challenges, and legacies.
Presidents Who Served Two Terms
1. George Washington (1789–1797)
George Washington was the first president of the United States and remains one of the most revered figures in American history.
His leadership was instrumental in establishing the framework for the new government, and he set many traditions, including the two-term precedent that later became law.
Also Read: Which Presidents Were Assassinated?
During his presidency, Washington focused on stabilizing the fledgling nation, maintaining neutrality in foreign conflicts, and suppressing domestic uprisings like the Whiskey Rebellion.
His farewell address warned against political factions and entangling alliances, shaping American policy for years to come.
2. Thomas Jefferson (1801–1809)
Thomas Jefferson, the third president, is widely known for his role in expanding the United States through the Louisiana Purchase, which nearly doubled the nation’s size.
A staunch advocate for limited government and agrarian democracy, Jefferson sought to reduce federal power and promote individual liberties.
Also Read: Could a President Serve More than Two Terms?
His administration also oversaw the Lewis and Clark expedition, which provided valuable information about the western territories.
Despite his opposition to strong central authority, Jefferson faced challenges in maintaining neutrality during global conflicts, particularly with Britain and France.
3. James Madison (1809–1817)
James Madison, the fourth president, was a key architect of the U.S. Constitution before assuming office. His presidency was dominated by the War of 1812, a conflict with Britain that tested American resilience and led to the burning of Washington, D.C.
However, the war ultimately fostered a sense of national unity and pride, culminating in the Treaty of Ghent. Madison also played a crucial role in rebuilding the nation’s economy and military, strengthening the federal government while maintaining a commitment to democratic principles.
4. James Monroe (1817–1825)
James Monroe’s presidency is best remembered for the Monroe Doctrine, which asserted that the Western Hemisphere was off-limits to European colonization. This policy became a cornerstone of American foreign relations for generations.
His administration, often referred to as the “Era of Good Feelings,” was marked by a sense of national unity and economic expansion. Monroe also oversaw the Missouri Compromise, which temporarily eased tensions over slavery by maintaining a balance between free and slave states.
5. Andrew Jackson (1829–1837)
Andrew Jackson, a war hero from the Battle of New Orleans, reshaped the presidency with his strong-willed leadership and populist appeal. Known as the “people’s president,” he expanded the power of the executive branch while advocating for the common man.
His presidency was marked by controversial policies, including the Indian Removal Act, which led to the forced relocation of Native American tribes along the Trail of Tears.
Jackson also dismantled the Second Bank of the United States, leading to economic instability, but he remained popular among his supporters for his fight against what he saw as a corrupt political elite.
6. Ulysses S. Grant (1869–1877)
Ulysses S. Grant, a Civil War hero, served two terms during the Reconstruction era. His presidency was defined by efforts to reunite the nation after the war and protect the rights of freed African Americans.
Despite his military success, Grant faced challenges in politics, including widespread corruption among his appointees. Nevertheless, he was committed to civil rights, using federal troops to combat the Ku Klux Klan and enforce Reconstruction laws in the South.
His administration also negotiated peaceful relations with Native American tribes, though conflicts still arose over westward expansion.
7. Grover Cleveland (1885–1889, 1893–1897)
Grover Cleveland was unique as the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms(until the re-election of Donald Trump in 2025), making him both the 22nd and 24th president.
His first term focused on fighting corruption, reducing government spending, and opposing high tariffs. After losing re-election, he made a political comeback and returned to the presidency four years later.
His second term was marked by economic turmoil during the Panic of 1893, forcing him to take unpopular measures to stabilize the economy. Despite challenges, Cleveland remained steadfast in his commitment to honesty and limited government.
8. Woodrow Wilson (1913–1921)
Woodrow Wilson led the country through World War I and played a key role in shaping the postwar world. His vision for international peace resulted in the League of Nations, though the U.S. ultimately did not join.
Domestically, Wilson implemented progressive reforms, including the Federal Reserve System, income tax, and antitrust laws. However, his administration also faced criticism for its racial segregation policies and suppression of dissent during the war.
Despite his idealistic goals, Wilson’s second term ended in declining health and political opposition.
9. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933–1945)
Franklin D. Roosevelt is the only president to serve more than two terms, guiding the nation through both the Great Depression and World War II. His New Deal programs reshaped the federal government, creating Social Security, financial regulations, and public works projects to revive the economy.
As World War II escalated, Roosevelt’s leadership helped secure victory for the Allies, though he did not live to see the war’s end. His unprecedented four terms led to the 22nd Amendment, which limited future presidents to two elected terms.
10. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961)
Dwight D. Eisenhower, a World War II general, presided over a period of economic growth and Cold War tensions. His administration invested in infrastructure, including the creation of the Interstate Highway System.
Eisenhower also pursued a policy of containment against Soviet expansion, though he sought to avoid direct military conflicts. Domestically, he enforced desegregation, sending federal troops to protect Black students in Little Rock, Arkansas. His balanced approach to leadership made him widely respected across party lines.
11. Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)
Ronald Reagan’s presidency is often credited with revitalizing the U.S. economy and strengthening American global influence. His policies, known as “Reaganomics,” emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, and military expansion.
Reagan played a crucial role in ending the Cold War, engaging in negotiations with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev while maintaining a tough stance against communism. Despite facing controversies such as the Iran-Contra affair, Reagan remained a popular leader and is remembered for his optimistic vision of America.
12. Bill Clinton (1993–2001)
Bill Clinton presided over a period of economic prosperity and technological growth. His administration balanced the federal budget, reformed welfare, and expanded free trade agreements.
Clinton’s presidency was also marked by efforts to mediate international conflicts, including peace efforts in the Middle East and the Balkans.
However, his tenure was overshadowed by personal scandals, leading to his impeachment by the House of Representatives. Despite this, he remained highly popular, leaving office with strong approval ratings.
13. George W. Bush (2001–2009)
George W. Bush’s presidency was defined by the response to the September 11 attacks, leading to the War on Terror, the invasion of Afghanistan, and the Iraq War. His administration also implemented major tax cuts, education reforms, and efforts to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa.
Bush faced criticism over the handling of Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 financial crisis, but he remained committed to national security and conservative policies. His legacy remains a topic of debate, particularly regarding the long-term effects of his foreign policy decisions.
14. Barack Obama (2009–2017)
Barack Obama became the first African American president and implemented significant healthcare and economic reforms. His administration passed the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, and navigated the recovery from the Great Recession.
He focused on diplomacy, leading to the Iran nuclear deal and the killing of Osama bin Laden. Obama also championed social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights and climate change initiatives. His presidency saw both major accomplishments and deep partisan divisions.
15. Donald Trump (2017–2021, 2025–Present)
Donald Trump is the second president in U.S. history to serve non-consecutive terms. His first term was marked by economic growth, tax cuts, and a focus on deregulation. He pursued an “America First” foreign policy, renegotiating trade deals and challenging global alliances.
His presidency ended amid controversy over the COVID-19 pandemic and the January 6 Capitol riot. In 2024, he won re-election, making history as the 45th and 47th president, further shaping the Republican Party and American politics.