Donald Trump has made a remarkable political comeback, winning the 2024 U.S. presidential election and becoming the 47th president.
At 78, he now holds the distinction of being the oldest person ever elected to the office and the first convicted individual to lead the country. This unexpected victory has stirred reactions across the globe, with concerns arising about his unique governing style and connections with authoritarian leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un. Trump’s rival, Vice President Kamala Harris, along with some former Trump administration officials, had warned of potential risks to democracy under his leadership.
Despite these apprehensions, American voters decided to grant Trump a second chance, prioritizing his promises over warnings from critics. Trump’s opponent, Kamala Harris, had aimed to break barriers as the first Black and South Asian American woman to become president. However, in a close race, Trump won pivotal states, including Wisconsin, to secure a total of 277 electoral votes, surpassing the required 270. Harris’s loss was particularly disheartening for her supporters, evoking memories of Hillary Clinton’s 2016 defeat.
Trump’s path back to the White House wasn’t easy. After losing to Joe Biden in 2020 and facing significant political and legal challenges, many assumed his political career was over. Yet his popularity endured, especially within the Republican base and segments of working-class and minority voters. Four criminal cases, including a conviction related to payments to Stormy Daniels, seemed only to solidify support among his dedicated “Make America Great Again” followers.
In a highly charged campaign, Trump vowed retribution against his perceived enemies and called for drastic immigration measures. His win signals a major shift in American politics, as he becomes the first president since Grover Cleveland to serve non-consecutive terms. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris, who will certify Trump’s victory as vice president, will be succeeded by JD Vance, an Ohio senator supportive of Trump’s policies.
