Donald Trump has clinched Time Magazine’s prestigious Person of the Year award for the second time.
The former US president first earned the title after his shocking 2016 election win. Now he adds another feather to his cap following his triumphant political comeback in 2024.
DONALD TRUMP AND TIME MAGAZINE
In a statement, Time’s Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs described Trump as a leader who “marshalled a comeback of historic proportions.”
Jacobs also said that Trump “drove a once-in-a-generation political realignment.”
The award recognises individuals or movements that have had the biggest influence on global events, for better or worse, according to BBC.
Trump’s impact, according to Jacobs, is undeniable.
DONALD TRUMP RINGS IN THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE
To mark the occasion, the 78-year-old Republican rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange.
Surrounded by his family and buoyed by chants of “U-S-A,” he savoured the moment.
“This is an honour,” Trump said. “Time Magazine has captured the spirit of what we’ve achieved this year.” Trump’s 2024 election victory was nothing short of extraordinary.
After a controversial first term and multiple legal battles, few thought he could make a political return, according to Sky News.
DONALD TRUMP’S POLITICAL COMEBACK
However, his campaign rallied young male voters, turning key swing states red and delivering him a decisive popular vote win.
For the first time in US history, the presidency will be held by a convicted felon. Earlier this year, Trump was found guilty of 34 counts of fraud in New York.
“It’s history in the making,” Time wrote of Trump’s victory. “He has reshaped American politics and redefined what’s possible.”
Trump has wasted no time outlining his plans for his second term, according to CNN.
HIS ACTION PLAN
Speaking to Time, he reiterated promises to reform immigration, deport millions. He plans to deliver what he called “an economy the likes of which nobody’s ever seen.”
He also vowed to slash taxes significantly.
South African political analysts are watching Trump’s policies closely. Many believe his economic vision could influence global markets, including trade with South Africa.
“His policies may reshape how the US engages with developing economies,” one expert noted. Time’s decision was not without controversy.
OTHER CANDIDATES
Other candidates included Vice-President Kamala Harris, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and the Princess of Wales.
Critics questioned why Time chose a figure as divisive as Trump.
However, the magazine stood by its choice, citing its tradition of spotlighting those who shape the world, for better or worse.
DONALD TRUMP’S WIN
Trump’s reaction was unsurprising.
He called the award a “huge honour,” contrasting it with past criticisms of the magazine.
He famously complained in 2015 when the title went to former German Chancellor Angela Merkel instead of him.
Trump’s win also highlights his growing ties with influential figures.
ELON MUSK’S NEW POSITION
Elon Musk, now a close ally, is set to lead a new advisory board called the Department of Government Efficiency.
Musk’s involvement signals potential technological and economic shifts that may ripple across the world, including in South Africa.
Love him or loathe him, Trump continues to dominate headlines.
His ability to defy expectations has solidified his place in history—and now, on Time Magazine’s cover once more. At the stock exchange, Trump summed it up: “This is just the beginning.”
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF DONALD TRUMP BEING NAMED TIME’S PERSON OF THE YEAR AGAIN?
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