President-elect Donald Trump has been named the 2024 Time Person of the Year, an honor that comes following what Time has termed an “unparalleled” political resurgence in American history. The announcement was made during a TODAY show segment on December 12, where Trump was chosen from an initial shortlist of ten candidates, narrowed down to five just a day earlier.
This marks the second occasion Trump has received this recognition, having previously been honored in 2016 after his presidential election win. His journey with Time began back in 1989 when he first graced its cover.
Time’s Editor-in-Chief, Sam Jacobs, emphasized Trump’s significant impact on American politics, stating, “This is someone who made a historic comeback, who reshaped the American presidency.” Jacobs noted that the person occupying the Oval Office is naturally the most significant figure in current political discourse.
Since 1927, Time magazine has honored a Person of the Year, recognizing influential figures ranging from world leaders to cultural icons. Notably, Taylor Swift was acknowledged in 2023 for her artistic achievements, marking a unique moment in the publication’s history.
Trump’s election victory in November positioned him as the first president since Grover Cleveland to reclaim the presidency after previously losing. Following a tumultuous first term, during which he attempted to contest the 2020 election results, Trump announced his candidacy in 2022. He experienced a notable political rebound, clinching the Republican nomination and winning the popular vote against Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden exited the race. This election cycle also saw Republicans regain control of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Reflecting on his campaign, Trump described it as “72 Days of Fury,” citing the palpable anger among the electorate. He outlined controversial plans for his administration, including mass deportations of undocumented migrants, significant cuts to federal programs, and the implementation of tariffs on imports to support American businesses. He also indicated a swift move to pardon individuals convicted of crimes related to the January 6 Capitol riot, saying those actions would be prioritized “in the first hour” of his new term.
Additionally, Trump recalled a life-threatening incident in July when a gunman targeted him at a rally in Pennsylvania, which he felt significantly altered public sentiment towards him.
Time’s Person of the Year issue is currently available on their website and will hit newsstands on December 20.
This recognition underscores Trump’s ongoing influence in American politics as he prepares for his return to the White House. The political landscape continues to evolve, and with Trump at its helm, many observers will be closely monitoring the implications of his policies and leadership in the coming years.