After witnessing a year of federal raids, felony convictions, and assassination attempts, American politics is wrapping up the year with Donald Trump being named Time magazine’s coveted “Person of the Year” for the second time, having previously received the accolade in 2016 following his first presidential election victory.
This recognition comes in the wake of a remarkable political comeback, as Trump successfully defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November elections, marking a significant shift in American politics. Time’s editor-in-chief, Sam Jacobs, highlighted Trump’s influence, stating that he has played a pivotal role in reshaping the American presidency and altering the country’s political landscape.
The magazine noted that Trump’s journey included overcoming significant challenges, such as surviving two assassination attempts and being the first former president to be convicted of a crime. Despite these hurdles, he mobilised a diverse voter base, winning the popular vote for the first time and securing victories in all seven swing states.
The announcement coincided with Trump ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, a symbolic gesture celebrating his return to political prominence. Time’s selection process, which has historically recognised individuals who have significantly impacted global events, positively or otherwise, underscores the contentious and transformative nature of Trump’s political career, as he prepares to assume office again on January 20, 2025.
Jargon
- Person of the Year: An annual title awarded by Time magazine to an individual or group that has had the most significant impact on the world in the past year, for better or worse. The title has been awarded since 1927 and has included a wide range of figures, from political leaders to activists.
- Convicted Felon: A person who has been found guilty of a crime and sentenced by a court. In Trump’s case, it refers to his conviction for business fraud, making him the first former president to hold such a status while running for office.
- Swing States: States that can be won by either major political party in an election, often pivotal in determining the overall outcome. Trump’s success in these states was crucial for his electoral victory.
- Opening Bell: A ceremonial event at the New York Stock Exchange that marks the beginning of the trading day. Trump rang the bell to celebrate his recognition as Time’s Person of the Year.
Viewpoints 💭
- The left criticises Time’s decision to name Trump as Person of the Year, highlighting his legal issues and divisive rhetoric as reasons against the recognition.
- They argue that Trump’s policies, such as mass deportations and military involvement in immigration, are inhumane and exacerbate social tensions.
- The left views Trump’s economic promises, like tax cuts and deregulation, as benefiting the wealthy at the expense of the working class and increasing inequality.
- Trump’s stance on foreign policy, particularly his approach to Ukraine and China, is seen as aggressive and potentially destabilising by the left.
- The left is concerned about Trump’s influence on media and public discourse, fearing it promotes misinformation and undermines democratic institutions.
- While the left views Trump’s recognition as Person of the Year as problematic due to his legal controversies and divisive policies, the right sees it as a testament to his transformative impact on politics.
- The left criticises Trump’s economic agenda for favouring the wealthy and increasing inequality, whereas the right applauds his tax cuts and deregulation as drivers of economic growth.
- On immigration, the left condemns Trump’s plans for mass deportations as inhumane, while the right supports them as necessary for national security and law enforcement.
- The left perceives Trump’s foreign policy as aggressive and destabilising, particularly regarding Ukraine and China, while the right views it as assertive and beneficial for America’s global standing.
- In terms of media influence, the left is wary of Trump’s impact on public discourse and democratic institutions, whereas the right appreciates his ability to challenge traditional media narratives and engage a diverse voter base.
- The right celebrates Trump’s recognition as Person of the Year, viewing it as validation of his significant impact on American politics and global affairs.
- They praise Trump’s economic policies, such as corporate tax cuts and deregulation, as essential for boosting growth and job creation.
- Trump’s strong stance on immigration, including plans for mass deportations, is seen by the right as necessary for national security and upholding the rule of law.
- The right supports Trump’s foreign policy initiatives, including his hardline approach to China and efforts to broker peace in Ukraine, as strengthening America’s global position.
- Trump’s ability to expand his voter base, particularly among minority groups, is highlighted by the right as evidence of his broad appeal and effective leadership.
Prominent Voices 📣
- Don Lemon (Former CNN host): Questions TIME’s decision, suggesting it sends a negative message to women and undermines democratic values.
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- Sam Jacobs (Editor in Chief of Time): Describes Trump’s influence on the news and his historic political comeback as reasons for his selection as Person of the Year.
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- Nikole Killion (CBS News Correspondent): Discusses the significance of Trump being named Person of the Year and its implications.
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- Jennifer Jacobs (CBS News Reporter): Provides insights into the reasons behind Trump’s selection and the impact of his presidency.
- Laura Loomer (Political Activist): Suggests that Trump deserved an even higher accolade than ‘Person of the Year.’
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