Donald Trump has won the U.S. presidential election in a resounding victory, flipping several key swing states and securing a popular vote win. The Associated Press declared Trump the winner after he clinched Wisconsin, sealing his path to the presidency.
In a speech to supporters in Florida, Trump took the stage at around 2:30 a.m. ET on Wednesday to declare his victory. At that point, Democratic candidate Kamala Harris had no remaining path to reach the required electoral votes.
Speaking before a sea of supporters at an election night event in West Palm Beach, Trump explained that the win marked, in some ways, the evolution of his political movement. “This is the greatest political movement of all time,” he said to the sea of supporters, “and now, we’re reaching a new level of significance because we’re going to help our country heal.”
It is a historic victory for Trump as he is the second president in U.S. history to serve non-consecutive terms, achieved by Democratic President Grover Cleveland in the 19th century.
Vice President JD Vance will accompany him. Trump thanked Vance and acknowledged the support of Vance’s wife, Usha, both of whom were present at the event.
America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate,” Trump said, surrounded by his family and campaign officials.
The 78-year-old, who this year survived two assassination attempts, called for unity among Americans: “It’s time to put the divisions of the past behind us,” he said. “Success will bring us together.”.