WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. 06 November 2024— Donald Trump clinched victory in the U.S. presidential election, securing 277 electoral votes over Vice President Kamala Harris’ 224. The former president, who previously conceded defeat in 2020, will now return to the White House, becoming the first president since WWII to regain office after a loss.
The tight race unfolded with Trump hovering near the 266-vote mark before crossing the decisive 270 threshold late in the night, defying polling predictions that had favored Harris. The outcome marks a historic win for Trump, whose campaign faced unprecedented challenges, including legal battles and an assassination attempt. On July 13, a near-fatal shooting incident left Trump injured but undeterred. “It was a close call, but it strengthened my resolve to fight for America,” Trump told supporters.
Speaking early Wednesday from his election headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump stood alongside Sen. JD Vance and members of his family, addressing an energized crowd. He declared his victory a “mandate from the American people” and framed the Republican resurgence in the Senate as the start of what he called “America’s golden age.” “We have an unprecedented and powerful mandate to lead this country to greatness once again,” Trump said, emphasizing the significance of a Republican-led Senate.
At 78, Trump will assume office as the oldest U.S. president, surpassing the previous record held by President Joe Biden, who withdrew from the race in July amid concerns about age and fitness for office. This election also cements Trump’s position as the first convicted felon to win the presidency, with sentencing pending later this month in his New York “hush money” case.
For the Republicans, this win signals a robust comeback, with Trump’s campaign navigating multiple indictments and the court of public opinion. “We have taken back our nation,” Trump said. “This isn’t just a victory for our party; it’s a victory for all Americans who believe in freedom and opportunity.”
The former president’s re-election underscores his enduring influence in American politics, defying not only his opponents but also historical precedent.
