Republican candidate Donald Trump has won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, which took place on November 5, making a comeback after his 2020 loss to Democrat Joe Biden. His opponent, Kamala Harris congratulated him on his victory.

Harris led a determined campaign to maintain democratic leadership in the White House, focusing on issues such as climate change, healthcare, and social justice. However, Trump’s emphasis on economic stability and border security appeared to resonate most strongly with American voters, especially in times of inflation and worries about national security.

A Clear Winner

This shift is evident in the election results. Although the final counts in Nevada and Arizona are still pending, Trump has officially reached the 270 electoral college votes needed. Consequently he secured himself a second term as president. A key factor in this Republican success was the flipping of crucial swing states. Four states that leaned Democratic in 2020—Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Georgia—chose Trump this time.

Outlook on Trump’s Upcoming Term

As the former and future president prepares to assume office once more, his return to the White House is already sparking both anticipation and debate. His policies on foreign relations, in particular, are expected to have a significant impact globally. This could lead to potential shifts in trade policies, defense alliances, and international diplomacy. With this in mind, Americans and the world watch closely, waiting to see how his leadership will shape the next four years.

The U.S. Presidential System Briefly Explained

Elections occur every four years. Citizens vote for electors in each state, who then form the Electoral College that formally elects the president. Each state has a set number of electors based on its population, and a candidate must win a majority of 270 out of 538 electoral votes to secure the presidency. If no candidate achieves a majority, the House of Representatives decides the outcome. The president serves a four-year term and can be re-elected once.