Donald Trump is now preparing for his return to the White House having secured a decisive victory in the 2024 US Presidential Election.
The President-elect edged out incumbent Vice President and Democratic Presidential candidate, tKamala Harris with 294 electoral votes to her 223.
In his first remarks since being declared the winner, Trump expressed readiness to form his leadership team, with speculation swirling over key cabinet positions.
Harris, who conceded after a tense battle, has vowed a peaceful transfer of power though she acknowledged that the outcome would be difficult for many of her supporters. She however urged them to continue to fight for democracy.
Trump’s triumph was bolstered by a strong showing in critical battleground states, securing five of the seven, including Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. He also leads in Nevada and Arizona, where final results are still being tallied.
Republicans have also regained control of the Senate and are poised to take control of the House of Representatives, though some contests remain unresolved.
Global Reactions and Alliances
Trump’s victory has sparked reactions from world leaders, many of whom have congratulated him. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the win “history’s greatest comeback,” reflecting on the bond Trump established with him during his first term. Similarly, Viktor Orbán of Hungary, a long-time Trump ally, praised the victory as vital for global stability.
Other world leaders, including Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Argentina’s President Javier Milei, have expressed their support, emphasizing the deep, personal connections they share with the incoming U.S. president.
European Security Concerns
While Trump’s win is being celebrated by many, European leaders are bracing for potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte voiced concerns about the growing threat posed by Russia and North Korea, underscoring the need for stronger transatlantic cooperation. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s stance on Ukraine and other security issues, acknowledging that Europe may face a very different relationship with the U.S. than under Biden.
The Future of Trump’s Cabinet
As Trump sets his sights on the White House, speculation about his administration’s leadership is already underway. Key figures such as Susie Wiles, who played a pivotal role in his campaign, are seen as strong contenders for Chief of Staff. Other names mentioned include former CIA Director Mike Pompeo for Secretary of Defense, and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who may be tapped to lead a new initiative aimed at streamlining government functions.
Final Results Pending
While Trump’s victory is clear, the final shape of the new Congress is still up for grabs. Republicans are favored to take control of the House, but the remaining races will determine the extent of their power. With control of the White House, Senate, and potentially the House, Republicans could enact major legislative changes in the coming years.
Trump’s official swearing-in will take place on January 20, 2025, but his preparations are already underway. The political world awaits the final tally from the remaining battleground states as he prepares to assume office once again.
Philips Babatunde