Putin Tops Forbes ‘Most Powerful People’ List, Trump Second

Monica Sanchez | December 14, 2016
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Russian President Vladimir Putin tops Forbes Magazine’s “Most Powerful Person” list for the fourth year in a row, since coming in first in 2013.

President-elect Donald Trump was ranked second, jumping 70 spots from his ranking of No. 72 in 2015.

"The world’s most powerful person for four years running, Russia’s president has exerted his country’s influence in nearly every corner of the globe,” writes Forbes. “From the motherland to Syria to the US presidential elections, Putin continues to get what he wants.

"In second place, President-elect Donald Trump has a seeming immunity to scandal, both houses of Congress on his side, and a personal net worth in the billions."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel as “the backbone of the European Union” was ranked No. 3, followed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping at No. 4 and leader of the Catholic Church Pope Francis at No. 5.

President Obama dropped 46 spots this year, down to No. 48. 

“America's outgoing president faces a legacy in jeopardy as his successor has threatened to unravel signature achievements, including healthcare reform and the Iranian nuclear accord,” writes Forbes. “The 44th leader of the free world will likely still retain influence as a kingmaker in the Democratic Party, but has yet to announce plans for after his term ends in January 2017.”

Other notable "world's most powerful" people include Trump's pick for secretary of state, Exxon CEO Rex Tillerson, who was ranked No. 24, and Vice President-elect Mike Pence (R-Ind.), who made his debut to the list this year at No. 69.

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