Donald Trump’s Comeback: From Political Outcast to Presidential Comeback Kid
The Making of a Comeback Kid
Donald Trump’s comeback at the helm of the US government was unthinkable a few years ago. Time Magazine today named US president-elect Donald Trump its “person of the year”, marking the second time he has won the accolade in acknowledgement of the mogul’s stunning political comeback.
Trump, who defeated Vice-President Kamala Harris in the Nov 5 election, adorns the magazine’s title cover sporting his distinctive red tie and striking a pensive pose.
A Year of Ups and Downs
This year saw Trump convicted on charges of business fraud and nearly assassinated twice – and will end with him preparing to return to the White House with Republican majorities in both chambers of Congress.
“We are witnessing a resurgence of populism, a widening mistrust in the institutions that defined the last century, and an eroding faith that liberal values will lead to better lives for most people. Trump is both agent and beneficiary of it all,” the magazine said in a statement.
The Impact of His Comeback
Having dominated the news events of 2024, Trump’s influence is set to continue when he assumes the presidency in January.
This time around, Trump is promising mass expulsions of undocumented immigrants and major tariffs that threaten to shake up not just the US economy, but those of key trade partners.
He’s cast doubt on continued support for Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion, and has already become something of a shadow president, feting foreign leaders at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
A Polarizing Figure
His comeback – on the cover of Time magazine, but also at the helm of the US government – was unthinkable a few years ago. After his supporters stormed the US Capitol in an attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss, it seemed like Republicans might be ready to wash their hands of the brash outsider who had taken over the party.
Criminal cases were launched over his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, and he was found liable in civil court for sexual abuse.
He remains a polarising figure in US and world politics.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s comeback is a testament to his enduring influence and impact on the world stage. Despite the challenges he faced, he has managed to rise back up to the top of the Republican ticket and is now set to take office as President. The world will be watching with bated breath as he takes the reins, and it remains to be seen what his second term will bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What prompted Time Magazine to name Trump Person of the Year again?
A: Time Magazine’s Person of the Year is awarded annually to the individual who has had the most significant influence on the world in a given year. This year, Trump’s comeback from a tumultuous few years made him the clear choice.
Q: What are some of Trump’s key campaign promises?
A: Trump is promising mass expulsions of undocumented immigrants and major tariffs that threaten to shake up not just the US economy, but those of key trade partners. He is also casting doubt on continued support for Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion.
Q: Is Trump a polarizing figure in US and world politics?
A: Yes, Trump is a polarizing figure who is widely regarded as both a divisive and highly influential figure in US and world politics.
Q: Who else was shortlisted for the Person of the Year award?
A: Besides Trump, the shortlisted nominees included Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian economist Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of late opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
Q: What is the significance of the Person of the Year award?
A: The Person of the Year award is a prestigious honor that acknowledges an individual’s significant impact on the world. It is a recognition of the person’s influence, both positive and negative, on global events and affairs.