Donald Trump has emerged victorious in the US presidential election, defeating Kamala Harris in a historic comeback that is likely to send shockwaves worldwide. The polarizing Republican’s win, after one of the most contentious campaigns in modern history, is especially remarkable given his recent criminal conviction, a narrowly avoided assassination attempt, and warnings from a former chief of staff who described him as a “fascist.”

Addressing supporters at a victory rally in Florida, Trump declared, “This is a political victory like no other in our country’s history.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, who entered the race in July following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal, ran a centrist campaign that spotlighted Trump’s divisive rhetoric and use of racially and sexually charged language. However, Trump’s focus on issues like immigration and isolationism resonated with voters eager for a shift from the Biden years, especially amid ongoing economic challenges post-COVID.

Despite predictions of a tight race, Trump secured a decisive victory, claiming key swing states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. His win makes him the first president in more than a century to serve a non-consecutive second term and the only person ever elected with a criminal conviction. He faces sentencing for fraud in New York on November 26.

At 78, Trump is also set to become the oldest sitting president, surpassing Biden, who will step down at 82 in January.