TRUMP ELECTED AGAIN, BEGINNING NEW MAGA ERA
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Former President Trump will be the 47th U.S. president, the AP projected on Wednesday, marking the culmination of a divisive campaign and cementing himself as one of the most significant political figures in U.S. history.
Why it matters: Trump appealed to voters concerned about immigration and the economy with promises for a second term that include mass deportations, sweeping tariffs and increased drilling for oil and gas.
- Trump's plans are expected to be implemented by loyalists across all levels of government. His supporters say he is better prepared to wield — and expand — the powers of the presidency than in his first term.
- Trump has also repeatedly vowed to seek "retribution" against his perceived political enemies.
- The world will be bracing for the return of an "America First" foreign policy, including a reduction in support for Ukraine and a more combative relationship with traditional allies.
The big picture: His victory follows an election cycle unlike any other in modern history.
- Trump, 78, is the oldest president ever elected and the first-ever convicted felon to take the nation's highest office.
- Vice President Harris ran an accelerated general election campaign after President Biden exited the race in July following a disastrous June debate.
- Trump also cruised through the GOP primary contest to reestablish himself as the unchallenged leader of the Republican Party.
State of play: Trump's victory was buoyed by strong performances across several key battleground states. He won overwhelmingly with men and white working-class voters, and picked up some support among Latino and Black voters.
- Polling had repeatedly shown Harris and Trump locked in a dead heat prior to Election Day.
Zoom in: Trump has said he will expand drilling for fossil fuels, extend his signature tax cuts and support American-based businesses — in a campaign cycle where voters were deeply concerned about inflation and rising costs.
- After bragging about his role in overturning Roe, reproductive rights had been viewed as a weak spot for Trump heading into November. However, Trump said in October that he would oppose a national abortion ban.
Between the lines: Trump ramped up threats in the last weeks of his campaign to exact revenge on adversaries during a second term.
- His perceived "enemies" list swelled to include Harris, former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), Biden, journalists and prosecutors involved in his criminal cases.
Zoom out: The 2024 presidential campaign featured historic political violence, with Trump facing two assassination attempts, including one at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where one person was killed.
- Anxieties are high for Americans over fears of post-election violence.
- Trump, who falsely declared victory in 2020, repeatedly sowed doubt over election proceedings this cycle, laying the groundwork for post-election challenges if he lost.
The bottom line: Trump's victory is the latest sign of his enduring grip on the Republican Party.
Editor's note: This story and headline have been updated with additional developments.
