29 Jun The Rise of Populism and Its Economic Effects: A Comparative Study of the U.S. and Venezuela

Jadyn Grannis

School of Politics, Economics, and Global Affairs, IE University, Segovia, Spain.

Bachelor’s in International Relations.

E-mail: jgrannis.ieu2024@student.ie.edu.

Abstract

Populism, defined as a political approach that appeals to the will of the people standing against perceived elites or the

other, has had significant economic implications across various countries. This article examines how and why populism

has influenced economic prosperity in recent years, with a focus on the United States and V enezuela. This comparative

approach explores how populist policies—protectionism, nationalism, social welfare, and authoritarian actions—have

shaped economic growth, investment, and market stability. While some populist movements have acted through

increased government spending and protectionist policy, others have led to long-term economic recessions due to

hyperinflation and weakened institutional credibility. By examining these case studies, this paper highlights the complex

and often contradictory effects of populism on national economies, emphasizing the importance of institutional

resilience in response to the ever-changing opinions of constituents and the economic policy choices that determine

long-term prosperity.

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Keywords: Populism, Economic Policy, Nation.