When Donald Trump returned in 2024, it was nothing short of a political phenomenon. After suffering a loss to Joe Biden in 2020, the idea of Trump returning to the White House seemed like a long shot. Yet, here we are, witnessing one of the most dramatic turnarounds in U.S. political history. His victory doesn’t just mark the return of a controversial figure—it’s a victory that breaks records and establishes new precedents. Let’s dive into five major ways Trump made history with his win.

1. The Oldest President Ever Elected at 78

In a milestone that will be etched in history books, Donald Trump became the oldest person ever elected to the presidency at the age of 78. Prior to this, Joe Biden held the record, winning the presidency in 2020 at 77. But Trump, with his age-defying energy and perseverance, took that title for himself in 2024.

Age seemed to play less of a role in voters’ minds than one might have expected. Despite concerns over his health and fitness, Trump’s supporters focused more on his policies and experience. He ran on a platform that resonated with many Americans who prioritized economic growth, national security, and a strong, assertive leadership style over age.

This surprising outcome signals that voters value experience and policy solutions more than ever, proving that age doesn’t always determine political viability.

2. First President Convicted of a Felony to Take Office

In another record-breaking first, Donald Trump’s return to the White House comes after he became the first-ever U.S. president to be convicted of a felony. In May 2024, Trump was found guilty on 34 felony counts in New York related to falsifying business records, specifically linked to hush money payments during the 2016 campaign.

Despite ongoing legal battles, Trump’s conviction hasn’t diminished his popularity among his supporters, many of whom view him as an outsider and champion of the people, someone willing to challenge the political establishment. His presidency marks an unprecedented moment in American politics—showing that even a convicted felon can command the White House. This raises questions about the future of political accountability and what voters are willing to overlook in favour of leadership that aligns with their values.

3. A Non-Consecutive Term, a First Since Grover Cleveland

Trump’s victory also cemented him as the first president to serve non-consecutive terms since Grover Cleveland, who held the 22nd and 24th presidential offices in the 19th century. Many believed Trump’s political career was over after losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden. However, the 2024 election marked a return that no one saw coming.

Grover Cleveland’s non-consecutive terms were seen as an anomaly in U.S. history, but Trump’s comeback shows that the political landscape has shifted. Trump’s return reveals the deep divides within the U.S. electorate, where frustration with the current political climate and Biden’s administration prompted many to seek a return to the “Trump era” policies.

Trump’s non-consecutive terms reflect the strength of his political brand and how the political climate can allow a former president to reclaim the highest office in the land.

4. Breaking a 20-Year Streak: The First Republican to Win the Popular Vote in Two Decades

One of the most significant aspects of Trump’s victory was his success in winning the popular vote. For the first time in 20 years, a Republican candidate secured the majority of votes nationwide. Since George W. Bush’s narrow win in 2004, Republicans had been struggling to win the popular vote, often relying on the Electoral College system.

Trump’s popular vote victory shows that the political tide is changing. Many factors, including economic dissatisfaction, immigration policies, and discontent with the current administration, played a role in reshaping voter sentiment. His win marks a major shift in U.S. politics, indicating that future Republican candidates might lean into the issues that matter most to everyday voters—issues like economic stability and national security.

This electoral shift also demonstrates the growing political power of certain demographic groups and underscores a broader transformation in the nation’s political landscape.

5. The Only President to Be Impeached Twice and Return to Office

Trump’s legacy is also marked by a distinction no other president holds: he is the only U.S. president to have been impeached twice. The first impeachment in 2019 was over accusations of pressuring Ukraine for political gain, while the second impeachment in 2021 followed the January 6 Capitol riots. Despite being acquitted both times by the Senate, these impeachments were pivotal moments in his presidency and continue to shape his legacy.

However, after these highly publicised impeachments, Trump’s return to office in 2024 tells a powerful story. His ability to weather these political storms and reclaim the presidency has only strengthened his image as a fighter—a leader unshaken by the political battles and controversies that have plagued his career. For many of his supporters, these setbacks only served to reinforce their belief in him as a figure willing to stand up to the system.

Trump’s ability to rebound after these unprecedented challenges adds yet another layer to his historical significance, leaving an indelible mark on the American political system.

Donald Trump’s Historic Comeback

There’s no denying that Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential win is one for the history books. His victory not only marks a return to power after a loss but also breaks several records and establishes new precedents that will be remembered for years. From becoming the oldest president to win, to being the first convicted felon to take office, and the only president to be impeached twice before re-election, Trump’s place in American history is now cemented.

As we look ahead, one thing is clear: Donald Trump’s influence on American politics is far from over, and his unprecedented journey serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of U.S. democracy. Whatever the future holds, Trump’s impact on the nation’s political landscape will continue to be a topic of discussion for years to come.