Donald Trump has once again claimed the title of Time magazine’s Person of the Year, a distinction he first earned in 2016 after his shocking ascent to the presidency.
This time, the honor celebrates an unprecedented political comeback, one that has reshaped American politics and reignited his influence on the global stage.
Love him or hate him, Trump’s impact in 2024 is impossible to ignore.
Here’s what led to his historic recognition.
Trump is Time’s 2024 Person of the Year for his historic political comeback and the profound influence he wielded on U.S. and global politics. Time’s editors chose Trump for his ability to marshal a “comeback of historic proportions” and his role in driving a political realignment in America. After becoming the second U.S. president in history to lose reelection and reclaim the White House, Trump has solidified his position as one of the most influential figures of our era.
What Did Trump Do to Earn the Title?
Time’s editors noted several key factors that made 2024 a defining year for Trump:
1. Historic Comeback
Trump’s return to the White House is an unprecedented feat in modern American politics. After losing reelection in 2020, Trump defied the odds to reclaim the presidency in 2024, becoming the first president since Grover Cleveland to serve non-consecutive terms. His campaign capitalized on widespread dissatisfaction with the Biden administration, soaring inflation, and cultural divisions.
2. Overcoming Legal and Political Challenges
Trump’s path to victory was anything but smooth. He spent weeks in a New York courtroom facing legal battles, including a conviction on 34 felony counts. Despite this, he remained a dominant force in the Republican Party, clearing the GOP field with ease. Trump also survived two assassination attempts during the campaign season, underscoring the high stakes of his political resurgence.
3. Reuniting Divided Factions
One of Trump’s most surprising moves was consolidating support from unlikely allies. Billionaire Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who previously ran as an independent, both backed Trump, strengthening his campaign’s appeal across a broader demographic. This strategic alignment helped Trump sweep all seven swing states, solidifying his political momentum.
4. Expanding His Base
Trump’s ability to grow his voter base was a defining factor in his comeback. He captured the largest percentage of Black voters for a Republican since Gerald Ford and secured the most Latino votes since George W. Bush. Even suburban women, previously thought to be leaning Democratic due to abortion rights concerns, shifted their support toward Trump in key areas.
5. A Reshaped Presidency
Trump has made it clear that his second term will not be business as usual. His plans include using the military to tackle mass deportations, pardoning non-violent January 6 defendants, and challenging traditional U.S. alliances. Whether through tariffs, foreign policy shakeups, or domestic crackdowns, Trump’s bold promises signal a presidency defined by ambition and controversy.
6. Turning Adversity Into Momentum
Despite facing intense criticism, legal setbacks, and widespread media skepticism, Trump embraced his challenges as fuel for his campaign. He called his comeback “72 Days of Fury,” a reference to his relentless campaign schedule and legal battles. Time editor-in-chief Sam Jacobs noted that Trump’s ability to not only survive but thrive in such circumstances made his selection an obvious choice.
Is Time’s choice reflective of Trump’s significance, or does it further polarize public opinion?
Averagebeing’s Take: Trump’s recognition as Person of the Year underscores the undeniable weight of his political influence. His ability to overcome legal challenges, unite unlikely allies, and expand his voter base is nothing short of remarkable. Whether you see his presidency as a bold reformation or a contentious divide, there’s no denying his role in shaping America’s future.
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