As the world struggles with the impact of the novel coronavirus, it is clear that governments have responded to the pandemic in different ways and with varying degrees of effectiveness. Those governments with populist leaders at the helm, however, have proven to be at a particular disadvantage when it comes to fighting the spread and impact of the virus.
Populist presidents, reliant on their need to constantly convey positive messaging that bolsters their support, have struggled to take the decisive, forward-looking action that the crisis demands. This style of leadership (or lack thereof) will make recovery much harder, and the losses—in terms of human life and the economy—much more severe.
