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