The 44th president of the United States, serving from 2016 to 2020, whose presidency is characterized by Richardson as an "authoritarian experiment." His public persona was significantly shaped by his television presence, which she examines in relation to his political conduct.

The 16th president of the United States known for his pro-abolition stance and leadership during the Civil War. Richardson pairs Lincoln's contributions with those of FDR, emphasizing his liberal policies that aimed to protect individual rights and establish equality before the law.

The 32nd president of the United States, who served from 1933 until his death in 1945, famed for his New Deal programs that expanded government's role in ensuring Americans' welfare. Richardson discusses FDR as a key figure in shaping the liberal consensus that followed Lincoln’s model.

The 37th president of the United States, whose administration marked a turning point in the alignment of the country's political parties, notably through his "southern strategy" and appeal to emotional manipulation over factual governance. His resignation followed the Watergate scandal.

The 40th president of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989, who continued Nixon’s project of challenging the liberal consensus. Richardson depicts Reagan as instrumental in linking conservative politics with right-wing religious groups and manipulating public sentiment through his rhetoric.