National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Donald Trump has clinched a stunning victory in the 2024 US presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in a high-stakes contest that has sent ripples across the globe. Trump, who previously served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021, now becomes the first president in over a century to win a non-consecutive second term.
The election, which was marked by fierce political rhetoric and intense campaigning, saw Trump overcome a challenging series of obstacles, including criminal charges, an assassination attempt, and harsh criticism from former allies. Despite this, his message on immigration, economic isolationism, and his combative stance on global affairs resonated with voters who were disillusioned by the economic fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic and looking for a change.
The victory came as a surprise to many, with Trump securing key swing states such as Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, leading to a quick and decisive result. The impact of his victory was immediately felt, with the US dollar surging, Bitcoin hitting new highs, and stock markets responding positively.
Global Reactions to Trump’s Victory
Even before the official results were fully confirmed, world leaders from all corners of the globe were quick to extend their congratulations. Among the first to react were long-time Trump supporters, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also sent a message of congratulations, hoping that Trump’s leadership might bring about a “just peace” in the ongoing conflict, despite expectations of reduced US military aid under his presidency. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed his hopes that Trump would strengthen the alliance, while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron promised to work with the new US president with respect and ambition.
Tinubu’s Congratulations to Trump
In Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sent his warm congratulations to Trump on his victory. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed optimism about the potential for greater cooperation between Nigeria and the United States under Trump’s leadership.
Tinubu emphasized the need for strengthened ties between the two nations, particularly in the areas of economic cooperation, peace-building, and addressing global challenges. He highlighted the trust and confidence the American people had placed in Trump’s leadership, stating that it was a clear reflection of his political appeal.
The Nigerian president also acknowledged the influential role of the United States in shaping global affairs, expressing confidence that Trump’s return to office would open the door for deeper partnerships between Africa and the US. Tinubu’s statement concluded by expressing hope that Trump’s presidency would contribute to global peace and prosperity, benefiting all nations, including Nigeria.
A Divisive Campaign and the Road Ahead
Trump’s victory came after a hard-fought campaign that saw him employ a combative style and often controversial rhetoric. His message centered on tax cuts, deregulation, and hardline immigration policies. He also campaigned on a promise of economic nationalism, which included higher tariffs and policies designed to boost American manufacturing.
Trump’s return to power is expected to bring significant shifts in both domestic and foreign policy. At home, he is expected to push for further deregulation, while abroad, his “America First” agenda is likely to impact US relations with key allies and adversaries alike. His stance on Ukraine, climate change, and immigration will be closely watched as the world adapts to the consequences of his re-election.
A Historic Victory
For now, Trump stands as the only convicted felon to ever be elected to the highest office in the land, with a court case for fraud still ongoing. At 78, he is also set to become the oldest president in US history, surpassing Joe Biden, who will step down at the age of 82. Despite the controversy and challenges that have surrounded his political career, Trump remains a force to be reckoned with, both in the US and on the global stage.
As President Tinubu and other world leaders send their congratulations, the world will now turn its attention to how Trump’s second term unfolds and what it will mean for global politics, economics, and diplomacy in the years to come.
