Many journalists clung to fading hopes that Vice President Kamala Harris could somehow pull out a victory as former President Donald Trump won state after state in what some are calling the greatest comeback in American political history.
By early Wednesday morning, the outcome the media most dreaded had materialized—and it wasn’t even close. The “Blue Wall” crumbled as Trump captured Wisconsin, dealing a decisive blow to Harris’s chances. Already, some of her allies in the press are attributing this loss to racism and sexism. As of this writing, Trump nearly swept the battleground states.
Trump’s Unstoppable Momentum
The news was confirmed with the projected victory: DONALD TRUMP DEFEATS KAMALA HARRIS TO BECOME 47TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Harris had campaigned hard with the backing of overwhelmingly favorable media coverage and celebrity endorsements, a stark contrast to the constant scrutiny faced by Trump. However, as the incumbent in a change-focused election, Harris faced an uphill battle from the beginning.
Many journalists held onto a dwindling belief that Harris could still prevail as Trump kept securing victories across key states. Political analysts expressed doubts about Trump’s strategy, which they saw as a dark path with confrontational rhetoric, personal jabs, and “Arnold Palmer-type” distractions, believing it would resonate only with his loyal MAGA base. In contrast, Harris promoted a “sunny” vision of unity and support for the middle class.
But Trump struck a different tone in his victory remarks Wednesday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, stating, “We’re going to help our country heal,” a significant contrast to his often combative tone on the campaign trail.
A Wake-Up Call for the Left
For left-leaning commentators who warned that the 2024 election could be the last if Trump won, this outcome—along with Republicans taking control of the Senate—felt like a direct slap in the face. Look at some of the headlines from New York’s major newspapers:
- “America Hires a Strongman.”
- “Pariah, Felon, President-Elect: How Trump Fought His Way Back to Power.”
- “Four More Years of Unpredictability: The World Prepares for Trump’s Return.”
Even the editorial section weighed in with a headline: “America Makes a Perilous Choice.”
When Trump held a substantial lead in the Electoral College count, MSNBC host Nicolle Wallace still held hope, stating, “It could be a very good night for Kamala Harris.”
Liberal Media in Disbelief
A somber mood pervaded left-leaning news outlets the following morning. On one prominent morning show, a host commented, “America, first of all, is far more to the right than any time in our lifetimes. Even going back to the Reagan years. And Donald Trump won in dominating fashion.”
For months, media discussions centered on whether Trump would accept the election results if he lost, as well as the possibility of post-election violence. Now, the media confronts its own warnings about a potential second Trump term, with its “no guardrails” concerns about democracy left to be tested.
Amid liberal pundits dissecting the Democratic losses, one analyst on a major network noted Harris’s limited support among Black men and Latinos as part of the broader discussion on her defeat.
“America… is far more to the right than any time in our lifetimes.” — MSNBC host Joe Scarborough
Trump’s Return to Power
Throughout the campaign, Trump projected strength, a quality that resonated with many voters. Even those uneasy with his often combative style remembered the economic gains of his previous administration. Harris, by comparison, was burdened by the challenges of President Biden’s unpopularity, with critics arguing he should have stepped aside earlier in the election cycle.
One stunned panel after another discussed the unexpected outcome, all wondering the same thing: “How could this possibly have happened?”
For those who criticized Trump for contesting the 2020 results, it’s now their turn to accept the political process. As one analyst put it, “You can’t love your country only when you win.”
In the final weeks, Harris largely avoided the press and leaned on rehearsed responses even after her debate win, a strategy many felt fell flat with undecided voters.
Unfazed, Trump Prepares for Action
Trump’s unwavering style has shaped the news cycle for years, keeping the media constantly engaged and, at times, outraged. In a recent interview, he reiterated his strong views, labeling “the enemy within” — referencing certain political opponents — as a more significant threat than foreign adversaries.
While Trump’s most dramatic promises, like mass deportations, are often seen as campaign rhetoric, his supporters generally brush these aside, convinced that even partial follow-through would deliver what they want.
On one network, former communications director Kate Bedingfield suggested that “Democrats need to have a soul-searching moment.” Many journalists agree the media should do the same, though few are optimistic it will happen.
