In a surprising revelation, Time Magazine announced Donald Trump as its 2024 Person of the Year, sparking a wave of debate across social and mainstream media platforms.
Former CNN host Don Lemon vehemently expressed his disapproval of Time's decision during a TikTok Live session, citing Trump's controversial past, Fox News reported.
Time Magazine justified its decision by highlighting Trump's significant political comeback and the profound impact he has had on American politics and international relations. In their announcement, they described Trump's journey as a “comeback of historic proportions,” emphasizing his influence on reshaping the American presidency and America's role globally.
Trump, who also won the title in 2016, emerged victorious in the 2024 presidential election despite facing numerous personal and political challenges, including felony convictions and attempts on his life. Time noted that his ability to maintain a central role in global politics was a key factor in their decision.
On the other side of the spectrum, Don Lemon used his platform on TikTok Live to challenge Time Magazine’s choice vigorously. He questioned the magazine's commitment to democratic values and highlighted the legal and moral controversies surrounding Trump.
Lemon's criticism was sharp and direct. He appealed to Time's readership, questioning what the selection said to women and supporters of democracy. He labeled the decision a "joke" and a "scam," suggesting it undermined the magazine's credibility.
Lemon specifically took issue with featuring someone he labeled an "adjudicated assaulter" on the cover of such a respected publication. His fiery rhetoric underscored a deep discontent with how Trump's narrative has been handled by influential media.
Last year, Time chose Taylor Swift as their Person of the Year, celebrated largely for her impact on music and culture, particularly through her "Eras" tour. The contrast between Swift's and Trump's selection highlights the diverse criteria Time considers for this recognition.
In Trump’s defense, following an assassination attempt, he claimed that the incident had garnered him new supporters, a statement Time used to underscore his resilience and continued relevance in the public eye. This year's other finalists for the title included figures like Harris, Elon Musk, Joe Rogan, and Benjamin Netanyahu, indicating the broad spectrum of influential personalities considered.
The controversy surrounding Trump's selection is nothing new, as every decision in recent years seems to spark debate over Time's criteria and the message they send with their choices.
Time’s announcement has drawn mixed reactions, with supporters praising Trump’s resilience and opponents echoing concerns similar to Lemon’s. This polarization highlights deeper societal divisions, particularly in political and social spheres.
Comments from both sides expose a significant divide in how people perceive leadership and influence in today’s climate. Trump’s ability to remain a prominent figure despite legal, moral, and personal challenges continues to inspire both admiration and criticism.
As debates intensify, Time’s decision reinforces the impact of its Person of the Year title in provoking conversations about leadership, legacy, and influence in the modern world. Whether viewed as a well-deserved honor or a contentious choice, naming Donald Trump as Person of the Year emphasizes the ongoing complex discourse surrounding one of the most polarizing figures in recent global history.
