New Delhi, Dec 12: Donald Trump, the President-elect of the United States, has been named Time magazine’s Person of the Year for the second time, with the first being in 2016 after his initial presidential win. This places him among a select group of individuals who have received the title more than once, including former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton.
The announcement highlights Trump’s historic political comeback, marking him as a central figure in global politics. Time’s editor-in-chief, Sam Jacobs, described the decision as straightforward, as quoted by media stating, “For marshalling a comeback of historic proportions, for driving a once-in-a-generation political realignment, for reshaping the American presidency and altering America’s role in the world, Donald Trump is TIME’s 2024 Person of the Year.”
Trump’s victory in the 2024 election was described as “stunning,” with Time noting his success in reshaping the American electorate. He activated a major base of young male voters, turned all swing states red, and won the popular vote for the first time. His win makes history as he becomes the oldest person to assume the U.S. presidency and the first convicted felon elected to the role, following a conviction earlier this year on 34 counts of fraud. Trump’s relationship with Time has been stormy over the years. While he celebrated being named Person of the Year in 2016 as a “great honour,” he criticised the magazine when not selected in other years.
The Time tradition began in 1927, originally titled “Man of the Year.” It recognises individuals or movements that have had the greatest influence on events of the year, whether positively or negatively. Past recipients include figures like Greta Thunberg, Pope Francis, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
This year’s finalists included Vice President Kamala Harris, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and the Princess of Wales. Ultimately, the magazine’s editors determined Trump’s influence and political impact in 2024 to be unparalleled.
Trump celebrated the recognition alongside his family by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, marking a pivotal moment in his ongoing political journey.
