Donald Trump wins 2024 U.S. presidential election

Donald Trump wins 2024 presidential election — Donald Trump dances as Melania Trump looks on, following his speech on the early results of the 2024 U.S. presidential election at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on November 6, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Donald Trump Defeats Kamala Harris in 2024 Presidential Election

PALM BEACH, Florida,— Donald Trump won the race to become the 47th president of the United States on Wednesday, marking an astonishing political comeback.

This victory comes after he lost the White House four years ago, faced felony convictions, and survived two assassination attempts, all while continuing to rally fervent support from his base.

Trump secured the presidency with a decisive win in Wisconsin, which pushed him past the crucial 270 electoral votes.

His return to office underscores the effectiveness of his combative, unconventional political style. Throughout his campaign, Trump targeted his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, with sharp and often personal criticism. Painting a stark picture of a nation in turmoil, he focused heavily on immigration issues, resonating with many voters, particularly men, who were frustrated and feeling left behind in an increasingly divided America.

Addressing an enthusiastic crowd in Florida even before the final results were announced, Trump said, “I am honored to serve as your 47th president and, once again, as your 45th.” His supporters responded with raucous cheers, celebrating what they viewed as a hard-fought victory and a new chapter for their movement.

Trump’s performance this election cycle surpassed his 2020 results in many states, while Harris failed to reach the same levels of support that Joe Biden achieved four years prior. The Senate is now controlled by Republicans, and while the House remains undecided, Trump’s administration will have stronger support in Congress. “You’ve given us a historic win,” Trump told his supporters. “And I promise you, we won’t forget it.”

Looking ahead, Trump has promised to make significant changes in government and to take action against those he believes wronged him. His agenda for his second term includes reshaping federal institutions and addressing issues of perceived corruption and betrayal.

The election caps off a turbulent campaign season, marked by two attempts on Trump’s life and a late change in the Democratic nominee lineup when Biden stepped aside amid concerns over his health. As Trump prepares to take office on January 20, he faces a deeply divided nation, an increasingly complex international landscape, and challenges that will test his leadership on multiple fronts.

Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket, mounted a spirited campaign but struggled to gain traction after Biden’s departure. Despite initial excitement around her candidacy, the rapid pace of the campaign season made it difficult to sway voters looking for clear change. Her running mate, Cedric Richmond, announced that Harris would address the nation on Wednesday, saying, “She’ll speak to her supporters soon.”

Trump’s victory marks the first return to the White House by a former president since Grover Cleveland in 1892. At 78, he is also the oldest president-elect in history. His vice president, JD Vance of Ohio, at just 40, will be the highest-ranking millennial ever in the U.S. government, symbolizing a shift in generational power.

Global Leaders React to Trump’s Near-Victory

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed support for Trump’s “peace through strength” philosophy, which he believes will help bring a just peace to Ukraine. Zelenskyy, recalling his September meeting with Trump, highlighted discussions on the Ukraine-U.S. strategic partnership and ways to end Russian aggression. “We look forward to an era of a strong United States of America under President Trump’s decisive leadership,” Zelenskyy wrote on social media.

The European Union’s top official, Ursula von der Leyen, also shared her anticipation of working with Trump again, emphasizing the importance of the U.S.-E.U. partnership. “We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens,” she said. Von der Leyen added that the U.S. and E.U. must continue working together to maintain economic stability, which benefits both sides through trade and investment.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte voiced his eagerness to collaborate with Trump in advancing peace and security globally. He pointed out the growing threats from Russia, terrorism, and the increasing alignment of China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. “Working together through NATO helps deter aggression and supports our collective security,” said Rutte. He also praised Trump for his efforts during his first term to urge NATO allies to increase defense spending.

As Trump approaches the finish line in securing the 270 electoral votes, the world watches closely, waiting to see how his leadership will shape global relations in the years ahead.

(With files from AP | Reuters | Agencies)