In one of the greatest comebacks in American political history, Donald Trump has won the 2024 presidential election. He is now the first candidate since Grover Cleveland in the late 19th century to return to the White House after losing re-election.

Despite predictions of a tight race, Trump managed a decisive victory by flipping key swing states and winning the popular vote.

According to the results:

• Young women trusted Kamala Harris less than they did Joe Biden four years ago.
• Young men, many of whom voted Democrat in 2020, shifted towards Trump.
• Despite focusing heavily on abortion rights, Harris failed to gain significant new support from women voters.
• Working-class voters leaned more heavily toward Trump than in 2020.
• Latino and Black men increased their support for Trump compared to the previous election.

Why did Donald Trump win?

Here are the main reasons behind Trump’s historic victory:

1. Economic concerns

The economy was the top priority for many voters. Rising inflation and the increased cost of living in recent years left Americans frustrated, and the Biden administration was widely seen as failing to provide effective solutions. Trump’s previous record of economic growth reassured voters that he could do a better job.

2. Establishment and anti-establishment appeal

In 2016, Trump positioned himself as the ultimate outsider, challenging the political establishment. Now, after eight years, he’s viewed as both an unconventional politician and someone with insider experience. This unique position gave him credibility with moderate voters while maintaining his appeal as a disruptor of the status quo.

3. Elitism

The Democrats’ strategy of portraying Trump as a dangerous figure—comparing him to fascist leaders and claiming he was out to harm minorities—alienated some voters. For many Americans, this rhetoric came across as elitist and disconnected from their everyday concerns, especially given the Democrats were in power.

4. Woke fatigue

What began as a legitimate movement for addressing social inequalities has, in many eyes, evolved into an overreach. Issues like gender identity and LGBTQ+ activism have sparked debates, even among members of these communities. Trump’s campaign leaned into traditional values, contrasting sharply with what many saw as Democrats pushing a “woke” narrative too far.

5. Global leadership

Global tensions have risen sharply over the past four years, with the war in Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East affecting economies and security worldwide. Trump’s first term was seen by many as a time of greater global stability, and voters believed he was more capable of handling these crises than Harris.

6. America’s decline

Many Americans feel that the country is losing its global influence. Voters saw Trump as the stronger leader to restore the United States’ role as a dominant global power. Harris, by contrast, struggled to project the same level of authority and leadership on the world stage.

7. Media bias

Traditional media’s overwhelmingly pro-Harris coverage alienated some voters, who saw it as biased and unbalanced. While Harris dominated mainstream outlets, Trump gained momentum through alternative platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and independent podcasts, which helped him reach his supporters more directly.

8. The assassination attempt

The assassination attempt on Trump during the campaign became a major turning point. For many, it symbolized an attack on democracy itself. Trump’s defiant response, including his now-famous raised fist photo, galvanized support from swing voters and rallied his base.