Originally posted by: MemnochTheCaT
That saying is kind of vague though, because you cannot be sure of when it was cemented as a quote. Specifically whether or not it was said before or after the 4th's time. I'm leaning towards the 3rd being stronger overall, yet the possibility remains that the 4th indeed surpassed the 3rd's powers, even in his prime. From the presences we have seen, and the skills that each developed, it seems like the 3rd was more intelligent and amassed more jutsu, but that the 4th mastered more devastating combat abilities (top-level rasengan, gamabunta, long-range demon-sealing).
It could also be that the 3rd was a better politician and leader than the 4th, there is much more to the title of hokage than combat ability. And as for people being called 'powerful', the US president is widely acknowledged as being the most powerful person in the world, but it certainly doesn't have anything to do with his physical (or mental, rofl) strength... I bet Moby would even kick his ass.
Ok, I digress, but you get the point. Back on topic, Gaara/Shukaku is almost certainly the most powerful fighting presence from the Sand, but would make a horrible leader until he can get psychologically balanced a bit more.
Sand Jounin "Hey Gaara how was your day? Ready to meet the Wave country ambassador?"
Gaara "ARGH!!! HOW DARE YOU INTERRUPT!! I was playing with my Ant Farm!!! IM RICK JAMES BITCH !!! DIEEEE!!!!"
Sand Jounin "AIEEEEEE! ... splat"