He was elected President as a Republican running on a right-wing populist, nativist, nationalist, and protectionist platform, opposing political correctness, immigration, and the liberal-leaning media while criticizing the presidency of Barack Obama. A famous real estate businessman and reality television personality before entering office, Trump was one of the most controversial presidents in American history. Donald John Trump (born 14 June 1946) was President of the United States from 20 January 2017 to 20 January 2021, succeeding Barack Obama and preceding Joe Biden.