Thursday 26 / December / 2024
Florida: Donald Trump will become the next US president after clinching victory in the key battleground state of Wisconsin.
With that victory in hand, Trump crossed the 270 electoral votes needed to be declared victorious in the vote that will see him return to the White House.
"America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate," Trump said early on Wednesday to a roaring crowd of supporters at the Palm Beach County Convention Centre in Florida.
US networks Fox News, CNN and NBC declared Trump the incoming president after projecting that he had secured enough Electoral
College votes following wins over Harris in battleground states including Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Trump is the first former president to return to power since Grover Cleveland regained the White House in the 1892 election.
He is also the first person convicted of a felony to be elected president and, at 78, is the oldest person elected to office.
Modi offers 'heartiest congratulations' to Trump
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has joined world leaders in congratulating Trump.
"As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership," Modi said on social media.
"Together, let’s work for the betterment of our people and to promote global peace, stability and prosperity."
Last month, Trump praised the Indian leader in a podcast hosted by comedian Andrew Schultz, calling him "a friend of mine."
German president congratulates Trump
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier joined other world leaders in congratulating Trump as the likelihood of him winning the US elections drew nearer.
"I send you my congratulations on your success in the election for the 47th President of the United States of America," Steinmeier said in a statement.
The German leader highlighted the importance of transatlantic relations "for the stability and prosperity" of both Germany and the United States.
"Especially in this troubled world full of conflicts and uncertainties, our cooperation is of great value and strength, bilaterally and as partners in NATO and the United Nations. You can rely on Germany as a strong partner at the side of the United States of America," Steinmeier added.
European Union chiefs ready to 'work together' with USA
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has "warmly congratulated" Trump on his election victory.
"The EU and the US are more than just allies. We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens," von der Leyen said.
"Let's work together on a strong transatlantic agenda that keeps delivering for them."
European Council President Charles Michel also congratulated the incoming US president.
He said the EU and the US have an "enduring alliance and a historic bond."
Michel said the EU would "pursue its course in line with the strategic agenda as a strong, united, competitive and sovereign partner while defending the rules-based multilateral system."
