Donald Trump Again Honored as Time Person of the Year

In a historic acknowledgment, Time Magazine has named Donald Trump its Person of the Year for the second time, attributing this honor to his significant political realignment efforts and impact on the presidency.

Time Magazine has once again named Donald Trump its Person of the Year, recognizing the former president-elect for his historic political comeback and wide-ranging influence in 2024. In a letter to readers, Time Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs stated that Trump was awarded the title "for marshaling a comeback of historic proportions, for driving a once-in-a-generation political realignment, for reshaping the American presidency, and altering America's role in the world."

To commemorate this achievement, Trump will ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday, accompanied by his family members. Previously, Trump received this honor in 2016 after his election to the presidency. Time Magazine's tradition of naming a "Person of the Year" began in 1927 and honors individuals or movements that have made significant contributions to global events. Past recipients have included figures such as Greta Thunberg, Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Pope Francis, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The naming process included considerations for ten finalist candidates, among them Vice President Kamala Harris, the Princess of Wales, and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who is now closely aligned with Trump and set to head an advisory board focused on government efficiency. In describing Trump’s selection, Time highlighted his remarkable achievement of winning the popular vote and transforming swing states into Republican victories, a feat facilitated by increased engagement from young male voters.

Trump’s win is notable not only for its political implications but also because he will take office as the oldest U.S. president. Additionally, he became the first American president elected while having been convicted of 34 counts of fraud by a New York jury earlier this year.

During campaign season, Trump participated in in-depth interviews with Time, during which he elaborated on his plans for a second term, such as revamping immigration policies and pursuing the deportation of millions. Notably, Trump expressed disappointment in 2015 when he missed the magazine's cover in favor of Angela Merkel but later celebrated his 2016 recognition as a "great honor," emphasizing the influence and importance of Time Magazine in his life. Despite his recognition, Trump has frequently critiqued the magazine's future selections, including the recent choice of Taylor Swift as their 2024 Person of the Year, further showcasing his longstanding relationship with the publication.