Donald Trump has won the 2024 presidential election, defeating Kamala Harris in a historic and hard-fought race. His victory brings him back to the White House for a second nonconsecutive term, making him the oldest president ever elected in U.S. history. This result signals a major shift in American politics and sets the stage for a controversial and impactful term ahead.
Trump Defeats Kamala Harris to Win 2024 Presidential Election
Donald Trump secured a decisive victory over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. Trump won over 270 Electoral College votes and led the popular vote by approximately 5 million votes, according to early projections.
His comeback places him among only a few presidents who have been re-elected after a prior defeat, solidifying his influence in U.S. politics. Trump's remarkable comeback to office makes him the second president following Grover Cleveland to serve two non consecutive terms.
Winning despite legal battles and issues that have defined his career, at 78 he is also the oldest person ever chosen to the U.S. presidency. This triumph marks a notable success for his base and begs important issues regarding the course of the US in the next years.
Key Figures in Trump's Victory and Political Resurgence
Supporting Trump in this journey is his running mate, Senator JD Vance, who will serve as vice president and first in the line of succession. Once a critic of Trump, Vance has since become a loyal advocate, helping to energize Trump’s core support base.
Vance, at 40, will be one of the youngest vice presidents in U.S. history, positioning him as a future figure in Republican politics. Elon Musk also played a role in Trump's campaign, contributing $100 million to a pro-Trump super PAC and boosting Trump’s message on his social media platform, X.
Trump’s plans for his administration include roles for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vaccine skeptic, in health policy and Musk in budget reform. These partnerships hint at the unconventional approach Trump intends to bring to his second term.
The Election That Reshaped the Democratic Race
After President Joe Biden withdrew following a challenging debate performance, endorsing Kamala Harris as his replacement, the Democratic primary veers unexpectedly. Particularly among progressive and moderate Democrats, Harris swiftly gathered support.
Her shortened campaign, meanwhile, gave little opportunity to gather momentum across significant demographics. Throughout her campaign, Harris highlighted Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric and past controversies, aiming to win over moderate Republicans and independents.
While her presence tightened the race in polls, voter concerns about inflation, immigration, and the economy ultimately favored Trump. Many viewed his approach as more likely to address the pressing economic issues of the time.
Policy Agenda and Controversial Campaign Promises
During his campaign, Trump presented a bold policy plan that included mass deportations, large tax cuts, and new tariffs meant to boost American businesses.
Though some analysts warn of possible price rises for American consumers, Trump says these measures will raise domestic income and lower overseas competition. Trump also vowed to pardon individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and restructure parts of the federal government to ensure loyalty.
Additionally, he promised a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and indicated plans to reshape U.S. foreign policy. Observers are watching closely to see how much of this agenda will materialize once he is in office.
