Last updated on 7 November 2024
The 2024 US presidential election has concluded with a clear victory for Donald Trump, who defeated Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris to secure 277 electoral votes. Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a major supporter of Trump’s re-election campaign, played a key role in mobilizing financial and grassroots support for the Republican candidate. His involvement brought significant attention and resources to Trump’s bid, helping to influence key battleground states and energize Trump’s base. Musk’s influence has been a decisive factor in shaping the electoral race.
Final electoral vote count
Donald Trump (Republican Party): 277 electoral votes
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party): 224 electoral votes
Jill Stein (Green Party): 0 electoral votes
Robert Kennedy Jr. (Independent): 0 electoral votes
Chase Oliver (Libertarian Party): 0 electoral votes
Other candidates: 0 electoral votes
Trump’s 277 electoral votes were enough to secure the presidency, well over the 270 needed to win. Elon Musk’s support for Trump was evident in his statements and public endorsements, ensuring that a large portion of the electorate, particularly tech industry leaders and entrepreneurs, united behind the Republican. This was crucial in states with high-tech sectors, where Musk’s influence resonated strongly.
Details of the popular vote
While the Electoral College determines the outcome of the presidential race, the popular vote gives more information about voters’ preferences:
Donald Trump (Republican Party): 71,633,021 votes (51%)
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party): 66,800,130 votes (47.5%)
Jill Stein (Green Party): 624,028 votes (0.4%)
Robert Kennedy Jr. (Independent): 598,216 votes (0.4%)
Chase Oliver (Libertarian Party): 562,070 votes (0.4%)
Other candidates: 315,225 votes (0.2%)
Trump’s 51% share of the popular vote was a decisive factor in his victory, and Elon Musk’s support of Trump’s policies, particularly on issues such as innovation, space exploration, and economic regulation, attracted voters from the tech industry and beyond. Musk’s support of Trump inspired several high-profile donors from Silicon Valley, who were crucial in maintaining a strong campaign infrastructure.
Third parties and independent candidates
While the focus of the election remained on Trump and Harris, third parties and independent candidates also made their presence felt:
Jill Stein of the Green Party received 624,028 votes (0.4%) but did not win any electoral votes.
Robert Kennedy Jr., running as an independent candidate, received 598,216 votes (0.4%).
Chase Oliver of the Libertarian Party received 562,070 votes (0.4%).
The other candidates received a shared total of 315,225 votes (0.2%).
Although these candidates did not influence the final election results, Musk’s comments on innovation, AI, and renewable energy influenced voters more inclined to support Trump’s policies than the more progressive stance of third parties.
What’s Next for the United States?
With Trump’s victory, the focus now shifts to the future of his second term. Elon Musk, as a key figure in the tech world and a vocal supporter of Trump, will likely have a continued role in shaping the country’s approach to innovation, technology, and space exploration. Trump’s administration will focus on economic recovery, healthcare reform, and international relations, with Musk’s influence in areas like electric vehicles and space likely to have a significant impact on the policy agenda.
Additionally, Trump’s return to the White House will reshape the Republican Party, and Musk’s growing influence within the party lead to further changes in the way Republicans approach future elections.
International Reactions
As expected, global leaders have already begun congratulating Trump on his victory. One notable statement came from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed enthusiasm for future collaboration between the two nations. Modi tweeted:
“Had a great conversation with my friend, President @realDonaldTrump, congratulating him on his spectacular victory. Looking forward to working closely together once again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space, and several other sectors.“
Another strong message came from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who congratulated Trump and Melania Trump on their victory:
“Dear Donald and Melania Trump,
Congratulations on history’s greatest comeback!
Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America.
This is a huge victory!
In true friendship,
yours,
Benjamin and Sara Netanyahu“
Musk’s influence on international relations, particularly in the tech sector, may further enhance the relationship between the U.S., India, and Israel, as technological collaboration and innovation continue to be key drivers in global partnerships.
