Democrat Donald Trump, despite being a convicted felon and surviving two assassination attempts, has won the presidential election, winning more than 270 Electoral College votes needed to become president on Wednesday, the 6th of November, beating Republican candidate Kamala Harris in a tumultuous race, according to the latest projections, report Reuters and Politico.
The former President’s victory in the swing state of Wisconsin helped him win the necessary electoral votes.
By 5:45 a.m. ET (12:45 p.m. Latvian time), Trump had won 279 electoral votes to Harris’s 223, although votes had yet to be counted in several states.
In the popular vote, Trump was also ahead by around five million votes.
Latin Americans, traditionally Democratic voters and lower-income households hit hardest by inflation helped Trump win the election. His loyal base – rural, white and non-college educated voters – also showed support this year.
Trump will become only the second US President to regain office after losing it – he will return to the White House after losing it four years ago and he will be the first US President to be a convicted felon.
His victory will have major implications for US trade and climate change policy, the war in Ukraine, American taxes and immigration.
Economists have warned that Trump’s proposed tariffs could exacerbate trade tensions with China and allies, while his promised corporate tax cuts could increase US debt. He has also promised mass deportations of illegal immigrants, wants powers to fire “disloyal” officials and opponents fear he will use federal law enforcement to target political enemies.
A second Trump presidency could further divide Democrats and Republicans on issues such as race, gender, child education and reproductive rights.
Donald Trump returns to the White House
