New York: Donald Trump has once again been named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year, marking his second time receiving this prestigious recognition. Time’s Editor-in-Chief, Sam Jacobs, explained the decision, saying:
“For marshaling 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.”
A Historic Recognition
Trump’s first win came in 2016 following his unexpected victory in the U.S. presidential election.This year, the award recognizes Trump’s remarkable political comeback, highlighted by his victory in the 2024 presidential election. Significantly, he also became the first U.S. president to win the popular vote after facing 34 counts of fraud earlier this year.
Time Magazine’s Person of the Year tradition, which began in 1927 as “Man of the Year,” celebrates individuals or movements that have had the most influence on global events, whether positive or negative.
Trump’s 2024 Comeback
Time highlighted the significance of Trump’s 2024 win, describing it as “a stunning political comeback.” The magazine noted his success in reshaping the electorate, particularly energizing young male voters, which helped flip swing states and secure a decisive victory. Trump is now poised to become the oldest U.S. president in history, has promised bold reforms, including overhauling the immigration system and pursuing mass deportations.
Trump Joins Notable Company
Previous recipients of the Person of the Year title include climate activist Greta Thunberg, former President Barack Obama, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky. Time’s editors select the recipient based on their influence, with this year’s finalists including Vice President Kamala Harris, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and the Princess of Wales.
Celebrating the Honor
To commemorate the recognition, Trump will ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, joined by family members. Reflecting on his earlier win in 2016, Trump described the honor as significant, stating, “It means a lot, especially me growing up reading Time magazine.”
A Controversial Relationship with Time
Over the years, Trump has had a love-hate relationship with Time Magazine. In 2015, he expressed disappointment when former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the award instead of him. While he celebrated his own wins, Trump has criticized some of Time’s choices, including the 2023 selection of Taylor Swift as Person of the Year.
As Trump embarks on his second term, this recognition underscores the global impact of his political career and the divisive influence he continues to wield in shaping America’s future.
