The United States President-elect, Donald Trump, has been named TIME’s 2024 Person of the Year, marking a remarkable political resurgence.
The announcement was made Thursday by TIME’s Editor-in-Chief, Sam Jacobs, who praised Trump for his “historic comeback,” reshaping American politics, and redefining the role of the U.S. presidency.
TIME’s feature highlighted Trump’s transformation from political disgrace to his current status as the “world’s most powerful man.”
Despite the tumultuous end to his first term, which included the January 6 Capitol attack and the aftermath of his unsuccessful attempt to overturn the 2020 election, Trump managed an unexpected and swift recovery.
In late 2022, despite being embroiled in multiple legal challenges, he launched his 2024 presidential bid, clearing the Republican field and securing one of the fastest primary victories in history.
The feature also noted that Trump’s political journey has dramatically altered the landscape of American politics, leading to a realignment of the Republican Party and forcing Democrats to reassess their approach.
While many Democrats believed the country sought a leader to restore democratic norms, Trump recognized a growing sentiment that the system was broken, using that dissatisfaction to fuel his comeback.
As he prepares to reclaim the White House, Trump faces significant challenges, including global issues like mass migration, the economy, and rising tensions with China.
The international community also awaits his approach to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Donald Trump
TIME also reflected on the July assassination attempt against Trump, a moment he described as a turning point that galvanized public perception of his resilience.
With concerns mounting over his second term, the magazine questioned how Trump would wield the power he has garnered, especially without the constraints of seeking reelection and bolstered by a favorable Supreme Court decision.
At 78 years old, this is the second time Trump will receive the prestigious honor, having first been named TIME’s Person of the Year in 2016 after his initial presidential victory.
Last year, pop sensation Taylor Swift was the magazine’s honoree.