Trump Named Time Magazine's Person of the Year

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will be named Time Magazine's 2024 Person of the Year On Thursday—the same day he rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

The accolade comes just six months after he was convicted in a Manhattan courtroom, becoming the first former U.S. president to face criminal charges.

It was Trump's first time performing the ceremonial role at the NYSE, marking a symbolic return to the financial heart of the country, just blocks from the courthouse where he was convicted.

His recognition by Time is the latest chapter in his contentious relationship with New York City, a place where his journey from a real estate mogul to political outsider began.

Trump's Stock Market 'Vindication'

The former president's appearance on Wall Street comes just days after a sweeping stock market rally, spurred by his election victory.

On Nov. 5, after the election results were tallied, the S&P 500 surged 2.5 percent, marking its best day in nearly two years.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 3.6 percent, and the Nasdaq composite gained 3 percent, all hitting record highs.

For Trump, who often cites stock market performance as a barometer of his presidency's success, these gains are seen as a vindication of his economic policies.

What of Trump's Manhattan Conviction?

Trump's platform promises economic growth driven by corporate tax cuts, deregulation, and tariffs on imports.

His populist rhetoric, which resonated deeply with working-class voters in 2016, remains central to his appeal.

His appearance at the NYSE and his second Time Person of the Year award (the first came in 2016, after his first presidential win) come at a time when his legal troubles, including fraud charges and the Manhattan conviction, continue to weigh on his public image.

Trump spent considerable time this year campaigning in New York, even holding rallies in the Bronx and hosting events at iconic locations like Madison Square Garden, though some have been marred by controversial comments from his supporters.

Will Trump's Policies Exacerbate Economic Inequality?

As he prepares for a return to the White House, analysts believe his administration will likely continue to prioritize business-friendly policies, as evidenced by his selection of business leaders to fill top positions in his cabinet.

However, concerns linger about his aggressive stance on tariffs and corporate regulations, which could disrupt industries and international trade.

While Trump's election campaign promised sweeping economic reform, his opponents warn that his policies could exacerbate economic inequality.

His return to prominence signals a dramatic shift in the nation's political landscape—one that could reshape U.S. markets and industry for years to come.

This article includes reporting from The Associated Press