WASHINGTON: Former US president Barack Obama and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton remain the most admired man and woman in the United States, according to a survey by Gallup Poll released on Friday.

Mr Obama edged out President Donald Trump, 17 per cent to 14 per cent, while Clinton edged out Michelle Obama, nine per cent to seven per cent.

But the 14 percent liking assured a second place for the incumbent, who is often depicted in the media as highly unpopular.

Gallup said sitting US presidents usually win the most admired spot, and that Mr Obama was the first former president to top the list since Mr Eisenhower.

“The current survey marks the 16th consecutive year Hillary Clinton has been the most admired woman. She has held the title 22 times in total, more than anyone else. Eleanor Roosevelt is second with 13 wins,” the surveyors declared.

“Mr Obama has now been named the most admired man 10 times, trailing only Dwight Eisenhower, who earned the distinction 12 times,” the report added.

Barack Obama won all eight years he was president, plus 2008 — the year he was first elected — and this year, his first as a former president.

Published in Dawn, December 30th, 2017