Category: Article Summaries

TRUMP DEFEATS HARRIS, MARKING HISTORIC COMEBACK

Donald Trump has won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in a historic comeback. Trump campaigned on his record from his first term, urging Americans to compare his leadership with that of the Biden administration, which Harris struggled to distance herself from. Her campaign faced challenges due to widespread dissatisfaction with the economy and negative public perception of the Biden administration’s performance. This victory makes Trump one of few American presidents to serve non-consecutive terms, a feat previously achieved only by Grover Cleveland in 1892.

Trump’s support came from strongholds in rural America and working-class voters, particularly those without a college degree, and he won critical swing states including North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Wisconsin. Harris found it difficult to unite the coalition that elected Biden in 2020, particularly after Biden stepped down from the race following a poor debate performance.

Trump’s victory follows a turbulent campaign season marked by his handling of legal battles and two assassination attempts. His return to office could complicate ongoing federal cases against him, as he has expressed interest in dismissing certain prosecutions and replacing special counsel Jack Smith.

Despite the country’s low unemployment rate, many voters viewed the nation’s direction pessimistically, benefiting Trump’s campaign. Both candidates employed divisive rhetoric, with Harris calling Trump a “fascist” and Trump attacking her on economic issues and immigration. The race was also notable for significant financial support from Elon Musk, who backed Trump with a large donation and promised to assist in streamlining government costs.

Trump’s campaign continued to display his unorthodox political style, marked by inflammatory language and appeals to populist grievances. As he prepares for his second term, Trump has promised economic growth and international conflict resolution, although his previous term often fell short of these pledges. He also pledges to be a president for “all of America,” a promise that will be tested amid the country’s deep divisions.

John McCormick and Alex Leary. “Trump Defeats Harris, Marking Historic Comeback.” *The Wall Street Journal*, 6 Nov. 2024. https://www.wsj.com/politics/elections/trump-defeats-harris-marking-historic-comeback-c2aba47f

TRUMP HAS WON, BUT DEMOCRACY IS NOT OVER

Donald Trump has won the presidency again, a development writer Tom Nichols describes as deeply concerning for American democracy. Nichols calls Trump an “aspiring fascist” whose administration will likely include opportunists and radicals, potentially undermining democratic principles and the rule of law. Nichols blames not only Trump voters but also Americans who abstained from voting or supported third-party candidates. He also notes that foreign interference, such as Russian propaganda and threats in minority areas, likely impacted the election, though ultimately American voters are responsible.

Nichols sees the re-election as a crisis for democracy, urging citizens to fight for its preservation. He references Churchill, suggesting this moment is a critical turning point but not the end. Despite Trump’s authoritarian instincts, Nichols argues that his lack of focus and a likely incompetent team offer hope that democracy can endure. America’s federal system also allows states to oppose any overreach by Trump’s administration.

Calling Trump’s return a “national emergency,” Nichols stresses that action, not complacency, is essential. He urges Americans to support democratic institutions, exercise free speech, and back candidates who will challenge Trump’s policies. Comparisons are drawn to Mitch McConnell’s opposition to Obama’s presidency as a potential model for resisting Trump, albeit for noble aims. Nichols concludes by warning that democracy’s survival will require steady, persistent effort by citizens and legal institutions across the country.

Nichols, Tom. “Trump Has Won, but Democracy Is Not Over.” *The Atlantic*, 6 Nov. 2024, https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/archive/2024/11/trump-victory-democracy/680549/.

Word Count: 248

INSIDE THE RUTHLESS, RESTLESS FINAL DAYS OF TRUMP’S CAMPAIGN

Tim Alberta details Donald Trump’s erratic behavior and mounting tensions within his 2024 campaign in its last stretch. Alberta reports that Trump initially showed an inclination to call Joe Biden “Retarded Joe Biden,” shocking his staff. Although he refrained from using it publicly, this episode exposed Trump’s dissatisfaction with his campaign’s controlled, disciplined approach.

After Biden exited the race, with Kamala Harris stepping in, Trump’s restlessness grew. His advisors urged him to stay the course, but Trump felt constrained and increasingly dismissed their guidance. Seeking a return to his 2016-style “killer” campaign, Trump brought back old allies like Corey Lewandowski and Kellyanne Conway. Lewandowski, especially, stirred internal conflict, questioning the campaign’s finances and clashing with current managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita.

Trump’s unpredictability escalated, including inviting controversial figure Laura Loomer to accompany him, which drew backlash. His running mate J.D. Vance further complicated things with inflammatory remarks about migrants. Trump’s campaign also struggled with significant morale issues, with Lewandowski’s antics and persistent mistrust among staff.

At a climactic Madison Square Garden rally, a comedian’s offensive jokes led to a public-relations debacle, again showcasing the campaign’s internal lack of discipline and Trump’s attraction to controversial figures. Alberta concludes that the turmoil Trump fosters makes it likely this chaos will follow him if he wins in November.

Alberta, Tim. “Inside the Ruthless, Restless Final Days of Trump’s Campaign.” *The Atlantic*, 2 Nov. 2024, www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/11/trump-2024-campaign-lewandowski-conway/680456/.

**Word Count**: 252