Inauguration speeches are a norm that indicates the pace of administration. The incoming president pre-empties his or her goals and desires for a country, as seen in Andrew Jackson’s first inaugural speech. Jackson promised an accountable administration that would not be filled with inefficient individuals, and he implied that his administration would not abuse its powers. Using Jackson’s first inaugural speech, the current paper takes a personalized approach to indicate the expectations of a voter and evaluation of his presidency.
I would have expected Jackson to act as per the will of the people without imposing his judgment. He stated how grateful he was for being elected as president and explicitly expressed his intentions to serve the people of the United States with zealous dedication (Jackson, 1829). He also implied that he would be a leader of people by keeping their interests at heart. Jackson would be diplomatic by maintaining peace with foreign nations, but his actions transcended his statements. He conflicted with the state of South Carolina over the imposition of tariffs and duties on imports and imposed the Indian removal act.
The major setback that I would not have expected from Jackson because his speech insinuated servitude and respect for the rule of law was the abuse of power. Jackson had said that public sentiments would not be ignored during reform, but actions such as the vetoing of the Maysville Road bill did not seem to be in alignment with his statement. Even though he was re-elected for a second term, I attribute his re-election to the outlawing of the Second Bank of the United States that happened in the same year. Otherwise, I believe that he did not adequately deliver on his promises.
Reference
Jackson, A. (1829). March 4, 1829: First Inaugural Address [Speech]. University of Virginia. Web.