FULL LIST: U.S. Presidents elected to serve two terms or more

Throughout U.S. history, a select number of presidents have been elected twice, allowing them to serve two full or non-consecutive terms. This accomplishment represents a strong public support level and a significant impact on the nation. Here’s a comprehensive list of these presidents, starting with the most recent.

1. Donald Trump (2017–2021, Re-elected 2024)

Party: Republican

Terms Completed: Two non-consecutive terms

Donald Trump, who first served as the 45th president, was elected again as the 47th president on November 6, 2024, defeating Democratic nominee and vice president Kamala Harris. Trump secured victory with key wins in swing states, including Wisconsin. This makes him the second president in U.S. history, after Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms. Trump’s return to office marks a unique chapter in modern American politics, with a four-year gap between his terms.

2. Barack Obama (2009–2017)

Party: Democratic

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Obama’s presidency included key legislative achievements, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), as well as significant moments like the economic recovery efforts following the 2008 financial crisis and the operation leading to the death of Osama bin Laden.

3. George W. Bush (2001–2009)

Party: Republican

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Re-elected during the Iraq War, responses to the September 11 attacks marked Bush’s presidency, the launch of the “War on Terror,” and substantial domestic issues, including Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 financial crisis.

4. Bill Clinton (1993–2001)

Party: Democratic

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Clinton’s time in office saw a booming economy, welfare reform, and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). His presidency was also marked by personal scandal and impeachment proceedings, although he was acquitted and completed his second term.

5. Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)

Party: Republican

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Reagan’s presidency was noted for economic policies often termed “Reaganomics,” anti-communist solid foreign policy, and efforts to thaw Cold War tensions. His leadership left a lasting mark on conservative policies in the United States.

6. Richard Nixon (1969–1974)

Party: Republican

Terms Completed: Elected for two terms but resigned during his second term

Nixon’s achievements included opening diplomatic relations with China and de-escalating the Vietnam War. However, his presidency ended in scandal with the Watergate investigation, leading to his resignation—the first and only by a U.S. president.

7. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961)

Party: Republican

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Eisenhower, a WWII hero, focused on maintaining postwar stability and promoted infrastructure development, particularly the Interstate Highway System. His terms were marked by Cold War pressures and efforts to desegregate public schools.

8. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933–1945)

Party: Democratic

Terms Completed: Four terms (passed away during his fourth term)

Roosevelt was the only president elected to more than two terms. He led the U.S. through the Great Depression and most of World War II. His unprecedented four terms eventually led to the ratification of the 22nd Amendment, which now limits presidents to two terms.

9. Woodrow Wilson (1913–1921)

Party: Democratic

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Re-elected during WWI, Wilson’s second term was marked by his advocacy for the League of Nations and his vision for peace following the war. His ambitious postwar plans faced challenges in Congress, shaping future U.S. foreign policy.

10. Grover Cleveland (1885–1889, 1893–1897)

Party: Democratic

Terms Completed: Two non-consecutive terms (22nd and 24th president)

Cleveland uniquely served two non-consecutive terms, making him the only president counted twice in the list of U.S. presidents before Donald Trump. A commitment to fiscal conservatism and government reform marked his administration.

11. Ulysses S. Grant (1869–1877)

Party: Republican

Terms Completed: Two full terms

A Civil War hero, Grant worked to stabilize the nation after the war and support Reconstruction efforts. His administration, however, faced numerous corruption scandals, affecting his legacy.

12. Andrew Jackson (1829–1837)

Party: Democratic

Terms Completed: Two full terms

A populist president, Jackson championed the “common man” and fought for political reforms, but his policies toward Native Americans, including the Indian Removal Act, remain controversial.

13. James Monroe (1817–1825)

Party: Democratic-Republican

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Known for the “Era of Good Feelings,” Monroe’s presidency promoted national unity. He introduced the Monroe Doctrine, a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy that warned European powers against interference in the Americas.

14. James Madison (1809–1817)

Party: Democratic-Republican

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Madison’s leadership during the War of 1812 and his role in framing the U.S. Constitution earned him a notable place in American history. However, his presidency faced challenges due to the war.

15. Thomas Jefferson (1801–1809)

Party: Democratic-Republican

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Jefferson’s terms were highlighted by the Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the U.S., and his support for westward exploration and expansion.

16. George Washington (1789–1797)

Party: None

Terms Completed: Two full terms

Washington set many precedents as the first president, including the two-term limit. Widely respected, he declined a third term, establishing a voluntary tradition that later became law.

The Two-Term Limit

Following Franklin D. Roosevelt’s unprecedented four terms, the 22nd Amendment was ratified in 1951, limiting presidents to two terms. This ensures a healthy balance of power, allowing presidents to lead for a maximum of eight years unless circumstances dictate otherwise.

Each president on this list reflects continuity and transformation, leading the country through unique challenges and lasting impacts on the nation’s direction and values.