For many, it was the economy, while others were drawn to his unscripted, non-politically correct persona. His policy positions on the economy and border issues also appealed to more moderate voters.
Her closing message, where she focused on her personal story and history, trying to bring joyfulness back into politics.
It solidified his control to install nominees for his cabinet and confirm more conservative judges to the federal bench, including potential Supreme Court vacancies.
Border security, renewing Trump's tax cuts, and energy legislation.
Initially exuberant, but it turned somber around 11 p.m. as results indicated a loss, leading to a jilted atmosphere with people leaving before Harris was expected to speak.
He thanked voters, spoke of healing the nation, and boasted about his diverse coalition of supporters and what it would mean for his leadership.
It resonated through both policy messages about the economy and border, and a darker, unscripted track focused on grievances and retribution against political enemies.
It allowed Trump to appoint more judges and add to his influence on the courts, with the potential to confirm more conservative justices to the Supreme Court.
There was a need to analyze every choice made during the campaign, understand what strategies worked and didn't, and figure out how to rebuild the party.
Trump either won or came close to winning all seven swing states, which were crucial for his electoral success.
Donald Trump will return to the White House as the 47th president of the United States. And Republicans regain control of the Senate.*Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter).Today's episode of Up First was edited by Eric McDaniel, Dana Farrington, Olivia Hampton and Jan Johnson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.*Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)