One year after Donald Trump’s stunning election victory over Kamala Harris, BBC Analysis Editor Ros Atkins provides a comprehensive look back at the transformative year that has followed. Trump’s win, defying many polls and expectations, set the stage for a second term characterized by significant policy shifts and ongoing political turbulence. The anniversary serves as a pivotal moment to assess the lasting impact of his presidency on both domestic and international fronts.
On election night, November 5, 2024, Trump secured a narrow victory, capitalizing on voter discontent and a robust campaign strategy. His defeat of Harris, who had served as vice president under Joe Biden, represented a dramatic reversal for the Democratic Party. The certification of the results by Congress in January 2025 proceeded smoothly, in contrast to the contentious events of four years prior, though it was met with protests and legal challenges from opponents. This period highlighted deep divisions within the American electorate and set the tone for a politically charged year.
Since taking office, Trump has moved swiftly to implement his agenda, beginning with a series of executive orders aimed at rolling back regulations and promoting economic growth. Key initiatives included tax cuts for corporations and individuals, which supporters argue have stimulated investment and job creation. However, critics point to rising deficits and increased income inequality as negative consequences of these policies. The administration’s focus on deregulation has also extended to environmental protections, sparking debates over climate change and sustainability.
In the realm of foreign policy, Trump’s ‘America First’ doctrine has continued to shape U.S. engagements abroad. Trade tensions with China have escalated, leading to new tariffs and counter-tariffs that have affected global supply chains. Relations with European allies have been strained over defense spending and trade disputes, while efforts to broker peace in regions like the Middle East have seen limited success. The administration’s approach to international organizations, such as the United Nations, has been marked by skepticism and reduced funding, altering traditional diplomatic norms.
Domestically, the Trump administration has faced numerous challenges, including ongoing debates over healthcare reform. Attempts to replace the Affordable Care Act have encountered legal and legislative hurdles, leaving many Americans uncertain about their coverage. Immigration policies, including border security measures and changes to asylum procedures, have sparked controversy and court battles. Social issues, such as abortion rights and gun control, remain deeply divisive, with the administration taking conservative stances that align with its base and fuel political polarization.
The political landscape has been further complicated by the midterm elections approaching in 2026, with both parties positioning themselves for the next electoral cycle. Trump’s influence within the Republican Party remains strong, though internal divisions have emerged over policy directions and leadership. Democrats, meanwhile, are regrouping and seeking to capitalize on perceived missteps by the administration, focusing on issues like voting rights and economic inequality to rebuild their coalition.
Ros Atkins’ analysis underscores the profound ways in which Trump’s presidency has altered the course of American politics. From economic policies to international relations, his actions have left an indelible mark on the nation and the world. As the country reflects on this anniversary, the questions of what comes next and how lasting these changes will be remain central to the political discourse, shaping the future of U.S. democracy and its global role.