Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures during a rally, in Henderson, Nevada, U.S. October 31, 2024. REUTERS/Mike Blake / Reuters

As Donald Trump campaigns for the 2024 presidential election, he remains an influential and controversial figure in American politics, shaped by a career that spans real estate, television, and a term in the White House. Former President Trump, who grew up in Queens, New York, was heavily influenced by his father, Fred Trump, a real estate developer who laid the groundwork for what would later become the Trump Organization. Building on his father’s legacy, 

Trump expanded into ventures from luxury properties to casinos, becoming known for his bold, often controversial approach to business and branding, as reported by History.

Trump’s flair for self-promotion eventually led him to television, where his role on NBC’s “The Apprentice” solidified his reputation as a tough, no-nonsense businessman. This exposure boosted his public profile, helping lay the foundation for his 2016 presidential run. He launched his campaign with a pledge to “Make America Great Again,” focusing on populist themes like job creation, immigration reform, and national security. Despite never holding prior office, Trump’s outsider status and blunt messaging resonated with voters, leading to a victory over Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton. This win shocked political analysts, as almost all pre-election polls had predicted Clinton’s victory, as noted by Politico and The New York Times.

Controversial Presidency and Key Policy Decisions

As president, Trump implemented a range of policies aimed at fulfilling his campaign promises. One of his signature moves was the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which lowered taxes for corporations and individuals, a decision hailed by supporters as pro-business but criticized by opponents for disproportionately benefiting the wealthy. His administration also pursued an “America First” foreign policy, withdrawing the U.S. from international agreements like the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran nuclear deal, a decision that BBC highlighted as part of Trump’s commitment to reducing America’s global obligations and focusing on domestic interests.

Yet, Trump’s presidency was marred by controversy, including two impeachments. In 2019, he was impeached on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, related to alleged pressure on Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden. The Senate acquitted him, but a second impeachment followed the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, where he was charged with incitement of insurrection. Once again, he was acquitted by the Senate, but the events left an indelible mark on his legacy, as reported by History and Politico.

Trump’s policies on immigration were another hallmark of his presidency. His administration implemented a zero-tolerance policy leading to family separations at the border and sought to end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), though the Supreme Court eventually blocked this attempt. His strict stance on immigration energized his base, yet sparked national and international criticism. According to The Washington Post, Trump’s immigration policies remain a central aspect of his 2024 platform, as he advocates for increased border security and tougher restrictions on undocumented immigrants.

Legal Challenges and the 2024 Campaign

Trump’s post-presidency has been overshadowed by numerous legal battles. In 2023 and 2024, he was indicted on multiple criminal charges, including falsifying business records, alleged interference in the 2020 election results, and mishandling classified documents. In May 2024, a New York jury convicted him on 34 counts of business fraud, making him the first former president in U.S. history to be convicted on criminal charges. These legal issues have intensified the stakes of his 2024 campaign, with Trump framing the charges as politically motivated and designed to prevent his return to power, as outlined by Ballotpedia and BBC.

Undeterred by legal hurdles, Trump has used these controversies to galvanize his supporters, often portraying himself as a victim of a “witch hunt” orchestrated by his political opponents. His 2024 campaign emphasizes themes from his first run, including promises to protect American jobs, reduce immigration, and enhance national security. According to Politico, Trump’s continued popularity among Republican voters underscores his enduring influence on the GOP, even as some party members express concern over his potential impact on independent and moderate voters.

As he campaigns alongside running mate J.D. Vance, Trump’s strategy focuses on rallying his core base and positioning himself as a defender of American values under siege. With a robust following and a strong financial backing, Trump remains a formidable contender. His campaign rallies, marked by familiar rhetoric and promises to “drain the swamp,” have drawn large crowds, highlighting his connection with supporters who see his candidacy as a return to conservative values and a rebuke of establishment politics.

Whether or not he succeeds in reclaiming the presidency, Trump’s impact on American politics is undeniable. His 2024 bid, amid unprecedented legal and social challenges, continues to reflect the polarized and high-stakes landscape of U.S. politics, where the former president’s influence and approach resonate deeply with millions of voters.