Key states and “Swing States”: a victory by a wide margin
Trump’s return to the political scene was far from guaranteed, given the significant obstacles he faced during his campaign, including two assassination attempts, four criminal charges, and a criminal conviction. His victory has plunged millions of Americans wearing red hats into euphoria, while just as many are horrified, traumatized by his increasingly bitter rhetoric.
In record time, Trump secured strategic states such as North Carolina and Georgia—key “swing states,” where the outcome often determines the presidential race. His decisive lead was confirmed with victories in Pennsylvania, which served as a springboard for his campaign, and Wisconsin, effectively ending Kamala Harris’s final hopes. The speed of his victory is reminiscent of 2016, when he defeated Hillary Clinton and successfully captured the “swing state” vote.
International reactions
Even before the result was made official, Trump received a wave of congratulations from foreign leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron expressed his readiness to “work together as we did during the past four years,” while highlighting their differing “convictions” and emphasizing the need for “respect” in their collaboration.
Macron’s reaction was quickly followed by that of Marine Le Pen, who, unlike in the 2016 and 2020 elections, did not extend her full support to Donald Trump this time. The leader of the National Rally (RN) offered her “best wishes for success” and expressed hope for a “strengthening of bilateral relations” between France and the United States. In his congratulatory message, Jordan Bardella, president of the RN, emphasized the “awakening” that Trump’s return to the White House should represent for both the French and Europeans. “Since Donald Trump encourages us to secure our own defense, let’s take him at his word,” said Bardella.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated the Republican candidate “on his impressive electoral victory” and called on his new counterpart to work toward a “just peace” in Ukraine.
The Kremlin indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin did not plan to congratulate Donald Trump, stating that the U.S. president would be judged based on his “actions.”
A controversial figure and a divisive speech
In his victory speech, Donald Trump tried to adopt a unifying tone, urging Americans to “leave behind the divisions of the past four years.” However, this message contrasts sharply with the virulent attacks he launched against Kamala Harris during the campaign and his controversial statements on immigration. At his rallies, he accused migrants of being a “poison to the country” and promised to launch a massive deportation campaign on his first day in office. His radical rhetoric continues to deeply divide American public opinion.
Towards a protectionist economy and an unclear foreign policy
Trump promised drastic economic reforms to protect the American market and local jobs. His strategy includes significant tax cuts and tariffs on imports, aiming to “steal jobs from other countries.” Financial markets reacted positively to his election, with the dollar gaining sharply and analysts predicting a strong opening for Wall Street.
However, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed concerns, warning Europeans against an individualistic approach—a “every man for himself” mentality—given that Trump favors bilateral negotiations over multilateral agreements. This protectionist outlook could have repercussions for transatlantic trade relations, particularly in industries like technology and manufacturing.
Trump has made several ambitious promises, including resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict before even taking office in January, a statement that raised concerns in Kyiv. He also claims he will end tensions in the Middle East, but has provided no concrete details on his methods. Known for his climate skepticism, Trump also asserted that he would withdraw from the Paris Agreement again and restart unrestricted oil drilling. This approach has drawn criticism both in the U.S. and internationally, where environmental concerns remain a major issue.
Abortion rights at risk
One of the main issues during this presidential duel was immigration and abortion—two areas where the Republican candidate remained firm throughout the campaign. No to immigration, no to abortion.
In his speech, Trump touched on societal issues like abortion rights, but this time he was more evasive. The right to abortion has been weakened by the appointment of conservative judges to the Supreme Court, a move Trump considers one of his major achievements. However, he did not specify whether new measures would be introduced to further restrict this right, leaving room for speculation about his true stance on the issue.
President with a large majority of votes
Democrats fear the intensification of Trump’s attacks against what he refers to as the “enemy within.” His combative rhetoric and thirst for revenge could escalate political tensions in the country. With the Senate under Republican control and the possibility that the House of Representatives might also swing in his favor, Trump is in an unprecedented position of strength. This majority could allow him to more easily pass his controversial initiatives.
A notable aspect of this new administration is the appointment of Elon Musk to lead a U.S. government audit. Musk, who supported Trump’s campaign with donations exceeding $110 million, is expected to rethink public spending and propose reforms. This unexpected choice could disrupt traditional administrative structures, though the exact implications remain unclear at this stage.
A President with a troubled legal past
At 78 years old, Trump will be the oldest president to be sworn in come January. However, his election comes as he is still embroiled in several legal proceedings, including a conviction related to concealed payments. The outcome of these cases, with potential prison sentences, could cast a shadow over his presidency. A sentencing hearing related to a case involving secret payments is scheduled for November 26, leaving uncertainty about how this might affect his time in office.
Donald Trump’s return to the White House is creating a seismic shift in American society. His electoral base, fueled by the euphoria of this victory, sees him as a defender of their values and interests. But much of the population fears a return to polarizing policies and heightened tensions, marked by social, racial, and political divisions.
In this divided atmosphere, Trump has called for unity, but his promises of radical reforms and his controversial personality suggest a tumultuous second term. As the country prepares to turn a new page in its history, the world is watching closely as the newly reelected president makes his first decisions, which could reshape the global political and economic balance.