TIME Magazine Names Donald Trump ‘2024 Figure of the Year’
International News Department 13-12-2024
The magazine describes the era as the “Age of Trump,” highlighting the president-elect’s influence on global politics and policies.
TIME magazine has declared Donald Trump its “2024 Figure of the Year,” stating that no other individual has had a greater impact on reshaping the trajectory of modern politics and history than the president-elect of the United States.
In its announcement on Thursday, TIME explained its decision, calling Trump’s recent rise a moment of culmination. Trump, who triumphed over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in last month’s election, is on the verge of his second presidential term.
“Whether as a supporter or a critic, everyone today is undeniably living in what can only be described as the Age of Trump,” the magazine noted.
Acknowledging his extraordinary political resurgence, TIME praised Trump for orchestrating a remarkable comeback, driving a generational political shift, redefining the presidency, and altering the U.S.’s global role.
A Polarizing Campaign and Controversial Policies
Trump secured a decisive win in the November 5 election following a campaign marked by fiery rhetoric targeting migrants, Democrats, and other perceived adversaries. Scheduled to take office on January 20, Trump has vowed to implement the largest deportation operation in U.S. history, a promise that has drawn widespread criticism from human rights advocates and created anxiety in various communities.
In late November, Trump warned of significant tariffs against Mexico and Canada if these nations failed to curb irregular migration and the cross-border movement of illegal drugs.
Speaking to TIME, Trump indicated he might involve the military in deportation efforts, calling migration an “invasion” of the U.S. He clarified that his actions would remain within the law, emphasizing, “I will go up to the maximum level of what the law allows.”
When asked about reinstating family separations at the border, Trump expressed confidence that such measures would not be necessary, stating, “We’ll send the whole family back.”
Foreign Policy in Focus
Trump’s “America First” agenda has also been a subject of intense scrutiny since his electoral victory.
The president-elect has pledged to bring an end to the war in Ukraine on his first day in office and take a tougher stance on China and Iran. His unwavering support for Israel remains a cornerstone of his policy, with a recent threat promising severe repercussions if hostages in Gaza are not freed before he assumes office.
In his interview, Trump said he believed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu understood his desire for an end to the conflict in Gaza. However, when asked if he trusted Netanyahu, Trump remarked, “I don’t trust anybody.”
Trump also criticized Ukraine’s decision to fire U.S.-provided missiles into Russian territory, arguing that such actions escalate the conflict unnecessarily. However, he asserted that he would use U.S. support for Ukraine as a bargaining tool to negotiate peace with Russia. “The only way to achieve an agreement,” Trump said, “is by not walking away.”
Finalists and Past Honorees
This marks Trump’s second recognition by TIME, having first been named “Person of the Year” in 2016 following his initial election victory.
Other contenders for this year’s designation included Kamala Harris, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, billionaire Elon Musk, and Kate, the Princess of Wales.
TIME emphasizes that its “Figure of the Year” title highlights individuals based on their influence and relevance in global affairs, irrespective of whether their impact is viewed positively or negatively. The selection has often stirred controversy, with past honorees including divisive figures like Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin, as well as inspirational leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.
