Time Magazine has named the United States President-elect Donald Trump its 2024 Person of the Year, celebrating his political comeback and seismic impact on American politics. This marks the second time Trump has received the accolade, the first being in 2016 following his unexpected victory over Hillary Clinton.
Adorning the magazine’s cover in his trademark red tie, Trump is lauded for orchestrating “a comeback of historic proportions” and redefining the political landscape in the United States.
Trump’s 2024 return to the presidency comes after a tumultuous period. Convicted of business fraud earlier in the year and surviving two assassination attempts, Trump overcame these challenges to defeat Vice President Kamala Harris in the November election. His victory secured Republican majorities in both the House and Senate, cementing his influence on the US political stage.
“For marshaling a comeback of historic proportions, for driving a once-in-a-generation political realignment, for reshaping the American presidency and altering America’s role in the world, Donald Trump is Time’s 2024 – Person of the Year,” the magazine said.
Time acknowledged Trump’s role as both “agent and beneficiary” of a growing wave of populism and distrust in established institutions. His resurgence, the magazine noted, reflects a global shift away from liberal ideals that defined much of the 20th century.
Trump celebrated the honour by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, flanked by his wife Melania Trump, and Vice President-elect JD Vance. His Time Magazine cover was prominently displayed during the event.
Despite the fanfare, Trump struck a cautious tone regarding his campaign promises, particularly on lowering the cost of living. “It’s hard to bring things down once they’re up,” he remarked, referring to high grocery prices in the US.
Trump’s return to power has been met with mixed reactions. His promises include mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, imposing steep tariffs on trade partners, and potentially withdrawing US support for Ukraine. His controversial policies and leadership style continue to divide both domestic and international audiences.
Nevertheless, Trump’s ability to rebound after a series of personal and political crises — including his supporters’ attack on the Capitol in 2021, criminal indictments, and a civil court ruling of liability for sexual abuse — underscores his enduring influence.
Time’s shortlist for 2024 included Vice President Kamala Harris, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Russian economist Yulia Navalnaya.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House in January, his legacy as a transformative, albeit contentious, figure in modern history remains undisputed.
