Former President Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th President of the United States, securing what appears to be a decisive victory against Vice President Kamala Harris. The victory caps off a grueling, years-long campaign, widely regarded as one of the most challenging in U.S. political history.
Following a tense night that extended into Wednesday morning, multiple networks declared Mr. Trump the winner after Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state, was called in his favor. Trump also managed to win Georgia and North Carolina—states that President Joseph Biden claimed in 2020. As of 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Trump was leading in Michigan and Wisconsin, with Alaska expected to deliver the electoral votes needed to reach the 270 threshold. Trump also holds an edge in Arizona and Nevada.
Trump's return to the presidency marks one of the most remarkable comebacks in U.S. political history. Despite facing relentless attacks from the Democratic Party and surviving two assassination attempts, he has reclaimed what is arguably the most powerful position in the world.
Vice President Harris ended her election night early, choosing not to address her supporters gathered at Howard University. A campaign representative stated that she would deliver remarks sometime later today.
Trump's campaign focused on key issues that resonated strongly with American voters, including the economy, immigration, border security, public safety, and other critical concerns. Conversely, Harris's attempt to frame Trump as unfit for a second term failed to gain traction with voters, who were more focused on addressing their financial challenges.
Additionally, Republicans are projected to take control of the Senate, while current trends suggest that Democrats could win control of the House of Representatives. If these results hold, a divided Congress could complicate President-elect Trump's efforts to push through his legislative agenda.
During his victory speech, Mr. Trump said, "Just as I did in my first term, I will govern by a simple motto: promises made, promises kept." He said nothing will stop him from keeping his promises to the American people, which is to make America "safe, strong, prosperous, powerful and free again, and I'm asking every citizen all across our land to join me in this noble and righteous endeavor." The president-elect called for unity, urging Americans to move beyond the divisions of the past four years. "Success will bring us together; I've seen that," he stated.
