General
The 2024 High School Yearbook of American Politics
The 2024 political scene is ending where it began, with Donald Trump at center stage. No presidential contender has ever had a year like his: $350 million in court-ordered payments in a civil fraud case, $83.3 million in a defamation case, 34 felony …
The 2024 political scene is ending where it began, with Donald Trump at center stage. No presidential contender has ever had a year like his: $350 million in court-ordered payments in a civil fraud case, $83.3 million in a defamation case, 34 felony convictions in a hush-money case, two assassination attempts and the biggie — 312 electoral votes. As usual, Mr. Trump was operating according to a different set of rules than everyone else.
That said, he was not the only standout in politics this year. Men, women, pets, memes, vibes — so much specialness to celebrate. No doubt you have your own list of bests, worsts and weirdests. Let’s see how they overlap with mine.
Most Vexing Dropout: Joe Biden
So much of the 2024 presidential contest was bound up in Mr. Biden’s decision to run for re-election and then drop out too late to help anyone. There is much blame to go around, but the bottom line is that Mr. Biden overstayed, poorly serving the nation and tarnishing his legacy — which included big wins such as digging America out of the pandemic, making infrastructure week real and getting 235 federal judges confirmed. Just something to ponder for other elected leaders who insist on clinging to office. Sometimes, age is more than a number.
Hottest Kingmaker: Joe Rogan
Betcha no Democratic candidate skips his bro-cast next election.
Most Ill-Fated Bromance: Donald Trump and Elon Musk
Which do we prefer: Elonald? Donelon? Whatevs. The world’s richest man is understandably giddy after buying himself a presidential BFF. But Mr. Musk is a richer, weirder, more entitled media magnet than even the president-elect. Place your bets on when Mr. Trump wearies of sharing the spotlight. Nobody puts Donnie in a corner.
Most Ill-Prepared: Kamala Harris
She wasn’t ready to lead Team Blue — a harsh reality that had little to do with having only a few months to adjust to being at the top of the ticket. Sorry, but doing your best doesn’t cut it in this job interview.
