Trump Defeats Harris, Returning to the White House Amid Intense Political and Legal Drama
In a historic political comeback, Donald Trump has won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Kamala Harris in a race filled with controversy, legal battles, and high-stakes confrontations. Trump’s victory marks the first time in over a century that a U.S. president has won a non-consecutive second term, despite facing unprecedented challenges, including a recent criminal conviction and assassination attempt.
“It’s a political victory like our country has never seen before,” Trump declared at his victory party in Florida.
Harris’s Campaign of Unity Falls Short
Vice President Kamala Harris, who entered the race after President Joe Biden stepped down, centered her campaign on unity and social justice. Despite emphasizing Trump’s divisive rhetoric and pledging to uphold democratic values, Harris’s campaign could not overcome Trump’s widespread support among voters frustrated with post-COVID economic struggles.
Trump Secures Swing States and Breaks Records
The results, announced swiftly, saw Trump winning key swing states, including Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. At 78, Trump is set to become the oldest sitting U.S. president, surpassing Biden, who will officially step down in January at age 82.
In addition, Trump’s victory makes him the only president elected as a convicted felon, with a sentencing hearing in New York scheduled for November 26 on fraud charges.
Global Markets React and Foreign Leaders Respond
Impact on Markets: Dollar Surges, Bitcoin Hits Record High
Global financial markets responded swiftly to Trump’s victory, with the U.S. dollar rising and bitcoin hitting a record high. Many equity markets advanced, reflecting trader confidence in Trump’s economic policies.
International Leaders Extend Congratulations, Express Caution Over Policy Shifts
Global leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, were among the first to congratulate Trump on his return to the White House. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed hopes that Trump would strengthen the alliance despite his previous criticism of NATO’s structure.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose country relies heavily on U.S. support, congratulated Trump and expressed hope for a “just peace” amid fears of reduced American military aid under Trump’s administration.
French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also extended their congratulations, signaling a cautious willingness to work with Trump on shared issues.
Policy Shifts Expected Under Trump’s Leadership
Foreign Policy and Domestic Changes Expected to Shake Up Washington
Trump’s return brings anticipated changes to both domestic and foreign policy. His “America First” stance, focused on isolationism and immigration control, includes potential cuts in foreign aid and increased tariffs on imports. His stance on immigration has also stirred concerns across Latin America, as Trump vows to ramp up deportations.
On the climate front, Trump has vowed to dismantle Biden’s environmental policies, posing potential setbacks to global climate initiatives. He has also voiced intentions to pressure Ukraine to negotiate territorial concessions to Russia to hasten peace, a stance that has drawn international scrutiny.
Economic Vision: Deregulation, Tax Cuts, and Tariff Increases
Trump’s economic plans include significant tax cuts, deregulation, and a marked increase in tariffs to protect U.S. manufacturing. Although he has faced warnings that these policies could lead to trade conflicts and higher costs for consumers, his platform appeals to voters impacted by COVID-19’s economic aftermath.
Combative Style and Populist Messaging Strike Chord with Base
Throughout his campaign, Trump’s combative style and populist appeal resonated with his base. Viral campaign moments, including impromptu public interactions at a McDonald’s drive-thru and a spontaneous news conference from a garbage truck, highlighted his unique showman’s style and helped him connect with voters.
Harris’s Bid to Make History Falls Short
Kamala Harris, aiming to become the first Black woman to win the presidency, ran a campaign focused on abortion rights, democracy, and unity. Despite early success in fundraising, her efforts ultimately fell short. Trump’s aggressive messaging on immigration, his appeal to working-class voters, and his critique of the “establishment” proved more influential in swaying voters seeking change from the previous administration.
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