Election 2024 Live Updates: Harris to Address Nation Following Trump’s Projected Win
Former President Donald Trump has won the U.S. presidential election, NBC News projects, making history as the second president to secure two nonconsecutive terms and the first with felony convictions to hold the office. Vice President Kamala Harris, who underperformed across critical swing states, sent her supporters home early this morning without a speech. She is expected to address her supporters and the nation later today at 4 p.m.
Senate Control and Historic Wins
Republicans have regained control of the Senate, adding momentum to their legislative power. Control of the House remains uncalled, but several high-profile races have been decided. Angela Alsobrooks, a Democrat, has made history by becoming the first Black woman elected to represent Maryland in the Senate, while Lisa Blunt Rochester is Delaware’s first Black female senator, marking significant milestones for representation in Congress.
Ballot Measures on Abortion Rights
In a noteworthy outcome, constitutional amendments to protect or expand abortion rights were passed in seven out of the ten states where they were on the ballot. This reflects continued public support for reproductive rights, even as the legislative landscape undergoes shifts.
Outgoing Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell expressed satisfaction with the preservation of the filibuster, emphasizing that it would prevent structural changes that some Democrats had proposed. “There won’t be any new states admitted that give a partisan advantage to the other side, and we’ll quit beating up the Supreme Court every time we don’t like the decision they make,” McConnell said, referring to proposals for D.C. and Puerto Rico statehood.
International Repercussions on Ukraine
Trump’s re-election could signal significant changes for U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine. Ian Bremmer, founder of the Eurasia Group, noted that Russia had hoped for Trump’s victory given his stance on Ukraine. Trump has previously stated his intent to end the war swiftly and indicated that he may push Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy towards a settlement by threatening to reduce financial support. This ultimatum could create pressure for a resolution, though it remains to be seen how it would affect the balance of power in the ongoing conflict.
With Trump’s victory signaling changes on both domestic and international fronts, the U.S. and the world are watching closely as the former president prepares to return to the White House.
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