NEW DELHI: In a stunning political comeback, Donald Trump has emerged victorious in the 2024 United States presidential elections, defeating Democratic nominee and current Vice President Kamala Harris in a race that was seen as a very close contest and the one which captivated America. With this win his running mate, Senator James David Vance of Ohio will be the Vice President. 

Republican Trump charts history as being just the second president to win two non-consecutive terms to the White house after his tumultuous presidency from 2017 to 2021, as he secured a decisive victory in the Electoral College with a commanding lead in key battleground states. 

Trump who will now become the 47th president of the United States lost his bid to be reelected in 2020 to Joe Biden a member of the Democratic Party, who had served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 under President Barack Obama.

As the final votes were tallied, Trump garnered approximately 52% of the popular vote compared to Harris's 46%. The former president's campaign focused on revitalizing the economy, addressing border security, and emphasizing a strong nationalist agenda that resonated with his base. His message of "Make America Great Again" struck a chord with voters who felt disillusioned by the current administration's policies.

Trump's victory speech, delivered to a jubilant crowd in Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, highlighted his commitment to uniting the country and restoring American greatness. "Together, we will build a future that is bright and prosperous for every American," he proclaimed, igniting cheers from supporters who gathered to celebrate the momentous occasion.

Harris, who made history as the first woman and first person of Indian descent to serve as vice president, had campaigned on a platform of inclusivity, climate action, and social justice. Despite her efforts to rally voters around progressive issues, she faced challenges from both within the Democratic Party and the broader electorate.

Meanwhile, Harris did not speak to supporters who gathered for what was supposed to be a celebration at her alma mater, Howard University in Washington. Her campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond told a thinning crowd gathered at her watch party at Howard University after midnight, but assured she would speak to voters the next day. Television visuals showed Harris's supporters crying as results continued to come in that showed her falling behind in key states.

Vice President-elect Vance also brings an Indian connection as the marine veteran is married to Usha Chilukuri Vance who is the daughter of Indian immigrants. Usha a successful lawyer with degrees from Yale University and the University of Cambridge married Vance in 2014 and has three children.

Political analysts are now looking ahead to how Trump’s administration will shape domestic and foreign policy in the coming years. Key issues such as healthcare, immigration, and climate change are expected to dominate the early agenda as Trump seeks to fulfil his campaign promises.