Former US President Donald Trump claimed victory over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election.
Trump took the stage at his campaign headquarters in Florida, joined by his wife Melania and several of his children, amid cheers and chants of “USA” from his supporters. Trump, 78, pledged to “heal” the country in his acceptance speech, marking a historic comeback despite lingering controversies from his previous term.
Trump’s announcement of victory came after Fox News declared him the winner, while other major networks had yet to officially call the race. He secured key swing states such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, and North Carolina, and held a lead over Harris in other pivotal states that had not been declared at the time of his speech.
In Washington, the atmosphere was somber at Harris’s campaign headquarters. Campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond addressed her supporters, stating that “you won’t hear from the vice president tonight, but you will hear from her tomorrow.”
Adding to the night’s political shift, the Republican Party also regained control of the Senate, flipping two seats to overturn the Democratic majority. Trump’s victory and the Senate outcome signal potential policy shifts that could impact both domestic and international relations.
US allies in Europe and Asia have expressed concerns about a return to Trump’s “America First” stance, particularly his past affinity for nationalist policies and praise for authoritarian leaders like Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
Financial markets reacted swiftly, with the US dollar strengthening and Bitcoin reaching record highs, as investors anticipated Trump’s economic and fiscal policy approach.
An Intense Election Day
Throughout Election Day, millions of Americans flocked to polling stations or cast their ballots early, highlighting the intense stakes of this year’s election. Harris, who was aiming to become the first female president, faced a close contest against Trump in the polls leading up to Election Day.
Despite her advocacy for abortion rights and warnings about the risks to democracy under Trump, her campaign was overshadowed by Trump’s well-organized base. She joined the race in July following President Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, yet despite her appeals, Trump’s lead held firm throughout the night.
Bomb Threats and Security Concerns
The day’s high stakes were marked by heightened security concerns. Bomb threats were reported at polling stations in Georgia and Pennsylvania, causing temporary disruptions. The FBI later identified these threats as hoaxes, originating from foreign sources, specifically Russia—a country the US has accused of election interference.
Celebrations and Caution
Trump’s supporters celebrated fervently at Mar-a-Lago, where prominent figures, including tech mogul Elon Musk, marked the win on social media. Musk, who is anticipated to play a role in Trump’s proposed government efficiency commission, posted a photo with Trump, captioned “Game, set and match.”
The global community is watching closely as Trump prepares to retake the White House, with implications for international issues ranging from immigration policy to aid for Ukraine. Trump has signaled his intention to reduce US support for Ukraine, casting uncertainty over its ongoing conflict with Russia.
With Trump’s re-election and the Republican control of the Senate, the US political landscape faces a new chapter marked by intensified partisanship and a renewed push for his policy agenda.
