By Smartenylopedia Staff with Agencies
NEW YORK CITY – Donald Trump has been named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year for the second time, following his historic political comeback and victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. This recognition comes after his initial win in 2016, marking another milestone in his controversial and impactful political career.
In a statement accompanying the announcement, Time Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs lauded Trump for “marshalling a comeback of historic proportions” and spearheading a political realignment that has significantly shaped the U.S. presidency and its global role.
Celebrating the Honor
Trump marked the occasion by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, surrounded by family members and greeted with chants of “U-S-A” from supporters. In interviews with the magazine, he reiterated his ambitious plans for his second term, including sweeping tax cuts and economic reforms. “We’re aiming for an economy the likes of which nobody’s ever seen before,” Trump declared.
Additionally, Trump reaffirmed his intention to review the convictions of individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, hinting at possible pardons.
Person of the Year Criteria
Time’s tradition of selecting a Person of the Year highlights individuals or movements that have had the most significant influence on the year’s events, whether positively or negatively. Past honorees include Pope Francis, climate activist Greta Thunberg, former President Barack Obama, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
This year, Trump was chosen from a list of finalists that included Vice President Kamala Harris, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and the Princess of Wales. Musk, a close ally of Trump, was recently appointed to lead the newly formed advisory board, the Department of Government Efficiency.
Historic Milestones and Controversies
Trump’s 2024 victory has been described as unprecedented by many political analysts. For the first time, he won the popular vote and secured every key swing state, aided by a surge in support from young male voters. At 78, Trump will become the oldest U.S. president in history. His election is also notable as he is the first convicted felon to ascend to the presidency, following a New York jury’s conviction on 34 counts of fraud earlier this year.
Time praised Trump’s resilience and ability to galvanize his base, stating, “He has reshaped the American electorate.” Despite controversies, Trump has consistently maintained his status as a dominant political figure.
Trump and Time’s Legacy
This recognition also revisits Trump’s complicated history with the magazine. While he celebrated his 2016 win as Person of the Year, Trump criticized Time in 2015 when it chose German Chancellor Angela Merkel. In recent years, Trump has commented on Time’s decisions, notably criticizing Taylor Swift’s selection as Person of the Year in 2023.
Nonetheless, Trump expressed gratitude for the 2024 honor, calling it “a great recognition of what we’ve achieved and the road ahead.”
This latest accolade underscores the profound impact of Trump’s political legacy as he prepares to retake the White House.