I have been reading a really interesting book, Hail to the Chief: The Making and Unmaking of American Presidents, by Robert Dallek. The book examines what qualities have made our great presidents great and conversely, our bad presidents bad. With the upcoming elections looking to be something of a referendum on the complete Republican control on Washington and the relative unpopularity of the president and many of his policies, this book makes pretty interesting reading -- what are the things that have made our popular past presidents better than their more forgettable brethren? How much does having a strong vision for the country matter? Do you have to be able to get along with opposing politicians?

Here are a couple good excerpts. I will probably end up posting some more:

Democratic Openness:
Few developments in American political life have been more destructive to presidential authority than the rise of a secret government. While doctrinaire adherence to an ideology, or a stiffbacked presidential personality... have been detriments to sensible, innovative leadership, so, too, has been the conviction of some chief executives at secret, unilateral actions could take the place of public debate. Without it, presidents have denied themselves the chance to consider alternative means of dealing with difficult problems. Moreover, when their machinations came to light, as they invariably did, they proved highly damaging to the president's credibility and his ability to govern. (p. 77)

Electoral Mandates:
In the 52 presidential elections since the birth of the Republic in 1787, 16 presidents have gained the White House with less than 50% of the popular vote.... Even most presidents who were elected with a popular majority of one less than 56% of the ballot. Only 17 elections have produced decisive margins of more than 55%. (p. 84)