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In what many are calling a historic comeback, Donald Trump has been declared the winner of the US presidential election, media sources announced Wednesday. His triumph over Kamala Harris signals a significant shift in American politics, one that is expected to send ripple effects far beyond the country’s borders.
Trump’s win is even more remarkable given the turbulence of his campaign, which many have described as one of the most contentious in modern US history. Surviving an attempted assassination, a criminal conviction, and harsh criticism from his former chief of staff who labeled him a “fascist,” the polarizing Republican’s victory defies expectations and sets a new precedent in American politics.
“It’s a political victory that our country has never seen before,” Trump told a victory party in Florida.
Joining the race in July following President Biden’s exit, Vice President Harris ran as a centrist, positioning herself against Trump’s often polarizing language. Her campaign focused on challenging what she labeled as his inflammatory messaging and frequent use of openly racist and sexist themes, advocating for a more inclusive vision for the nation.
Positioning himself as the voice of discontented voters, Trump’s warnings of immigration threats and emphasis on isolationism resonated with those grappling with post-Covid economic strain. His message capitalized on frustrations from the Biden years, drawing support from those longing for a bold shift in national policy.
Read also: US Polls: Trump Insists Result Must Be Announced Same Night
Although the campaign had predicted a razor-thin finish, the final outcome was swift and decisive. The victor secured a commanding lead, sweeping key battleground states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania in a striking show of support.
The campaign pointed to a nail-bitingly close contest, but the results came surprisingly fast, delivering a crushing victory that included wins in the swing states of Georgia, North Carolina and Pennsylvania.
Trump is the first president in more than a century to win a non-consecutive second term.
He is also the only person to be elected as a convicted felon — he will face sentencing in a New York court for fraud on November 26.
Already 78, Trump is on course to break another record as the oldest-ever sitting president during his four-year term. He will surpass Biden who is set to step down in January at the age of 82.
The US dollar surged and bitcoin hit a record high while most equity markets advanced, with traders betting on a victory for Trump as the results rolled in.
