Why is Joseph McCarthy a transactional leader?

Answer 1

Joseph McCarthy is considered a transactional leader primarily due to his focus on exchanging political favors and leveraging fear to gain power and influence during the Red Scare. He employed aggressive tactics to root out alleged communists, promising protection or loyalty in return for compliance or support. His leadership style was characterized by a strict adherence to rules and a reward-punishment dynamic, where he sought to maintain control through intimidation and public spectacle rather than inspiring followers with a unifying vision. This approach ultimately contributed to a culture of suspicion and conformity during the 1950s.