Presidential Pecuniary Pitfalls: How U.S. Leaders Struggled with Money

Even U.S. presidents, with their vast power and influence, have faced financial challenges and made mistakes with their money. Author Megan Gorman, in her book "All The Presidents' Money," delves into the financial struggles and successes of U.S. presidents, revealing a side of them that is often overlooked. This article explores how some presidents grappled with their finances, offering valuable lessons for investors and individuals alike.

Calvin Coolidge, known for his frugality, was incredibly mindful of his spending. He would have described himself as "thrifty," a trait instilled in him by his father's advice to save and allow money to compound. Even when he was in the White House, the head housekeeper complained about his constant monitoring of food purchases.

On the other end of the spectrum, Thomas Jefferson was notorious for his lavish spending. He had an exquisite taste, honed during his time in France, and hosted extravagant dinner parties. Jefferson's debt at the time of his death was more than $2 million in today's numbers. Despite his financial struggles, he was clever in his estate planning, ensuring that assets passed to his daughter and son-in-law could not be attached by creditors.



Ronald Reagan, who grew up in a financially unstable household with an alcoholic father, found solace in budgeting. He used it as a mechanism to manage his financial anxiety, a trait that served him well throughout his political career. By sticking to his budget, Reagan was able to maintain control over his finances and plan for the future.

Harry Truman, on the other hand, had a tumultuous financial history before becoming president. He struggled with a series of unsuccessful business ventures, including a zinc mine, an oil well, and a haberdashery. Despite his financial struggles, Truman was able to save his salary and a special stipend he received for two years that was tax-free while in office. This experience led to the passage of the Former Presidents Act in 1958, which granted ex-presidents millions annually.

The financial struggles of U.S. presidents offer valuable insights for investors and individuals. By learning from their mistakes and successes, we can adopt more informed financial strategies. Diversify income streams, maintain a budget, and prioritize savings to build a financial cushion. Regularly review and adjust spending habits to avoid accumulating unsustainable debt.