How to Understand the Election Returns So Far
AtlanticOCT 2024
US Election: Donald Trump Elected as 47th President
Above: Donald Trump points to supporters with former first lady Melania Trump during an election night event at the Palm Beach Convention Center on Nov. 6, 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Image copyright: Chip Somodevilla/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
Donald Trump has endured partisan lawfare and unfair persecution since leaving office in 2021, and today’s result is a resounding victory for the American people. This is a mandate for strong borders, a robust economy, an America First approach to foreign policy, and a rejection of failed left-leaning policies. The new Trump administration will pursue bold visions to Make America Great Again.
Democratic narrative
The Democratic Party is committed to the peaceful transfer of power to Pres.-elect Trump. This was a hard-fought effort by the Harris campaign, and the Democratic Party believes in checks, balances, and the strength of institutions. The American people must rest assured that their voices will be heard in the months ahead, even though this is a disappointing result for many. Now is not the time for despair; the fight for social progress will continue well into the future.