President-elect Donald Trump has been named TIME magazine’s 2024 Person of the Year, earning the honor for a second time after his historic comeback in the political arena. TIME’s editors hailed Trump’s return to power as a “defining moment” in American history, citing his unmatched influence on the year’s events.
Donald Trump is TIME’s Person of the Year https://t.co/IjP5W2otV5 pic.twitter.com/CVHX9o0DB3
— TIME (@TIME) December 12, 2024
Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. It included a commanding primary victory, a headline-grabbing one-on-one debate with President Joe Biden, and his survival of an assassination attempt. The campaign culminated in a decisive general election win, where Trump captured all seven swing states and broke a two-decade streak by becoming the first Republican to win the popular vote since George W. Bush in 2004.
To celebrate the honor, Trump made a rare appearance at the New York Stock Exchange, ringing the opening bell alongside his family and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance. During his address, Trump underscored his administration’s commitment to economic growth and revitalizing America’s infrastructure by streamlining federal permits for major projects. “We’re going to make America work faster, smarter, and stronger,” he declared.
TIME’s editorial team considered several high-profile finalists, including Vice President Kamala Harris, entrepreneur Elon Musk, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Catherine, Princess of Wales. However, Trump’s transformative impact on the political landscape and his ability to rally a diverse coalition of voters set him apart.
As Trump prepares to assume the presidency once again, his administration is expected to prioritize bold initiatives, including large-scale deportations, pardons for individuals involved in the Capitol riot, and addressing global conflicts. His leadership promises a shift in domestic and international policies, signaling a return to his “America First” agenda.
Trump’s recognition as TIME’s Person of the Year reflects the profound influence he has wielded throughout 2024. His return to the presidency not only cements his status as a political force but also heralds a new chapter in American politics, one likely to shape the nation’s direction for years to come.