2024's Biggest Political Winners: Comebacks, Controversies, & Shifting Power
The Josh Lafazan Show - Episode 34
Today's top stories in U.S. news, politics, government, and world affairs:
We’re wrapping up the year with 2024’s top political winners from around the country.
#3: Vice President-Elect JD Vance
I voted for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, but JD Vance, though a polarizing figure, earned his place as a significant winner in 2024. Initially, his selection as Trump’s running mate drew widespread criticism. Many believed his controversial past and lack of experience made him a liability. Early polling reflected this skepticism—his favorability ratings were a dismal 33%, with an unfavorable rating of 42%, making him one of the least popular VP candidates in modern history.
The media amplified his challenges, relentlessly scrutinizing his past comments, such as his critiques of Trump and inflammatory statements about childless leaders and immigration. Stories about his alleged hypocrisy and eccentric claims, including bizarre rumors and jokes from his political opponents, made his introduction to the electorate a disaster.
Yet, Trump stood by Vance, who proved to be a loyal and effective running mate. The turning point came during the Vice Presidential debate in October, where Vance’s polished performance and sharp critiques of Kamala Harris stood out. Even critics acknowledged his debate skills, which contrasted with Tim Walz’s less confident showing. This debate marked a shift in momentum, boosting Vance’s favorability ratings by seven points.
By election day, Vance had not only rehabilitated his image but also energized key voter demographics, particularly younger men through his podcast appearances. His rise solidified his future within the GOP. With Trump term-limited in 2028, Vance is widely viewed as the heir apparent to the MAGA movement. Betting markets now list him as the frontrunner for the GOP nomination in 2028, cementing his place as one of 2024’s biggest political winners.
#2: Former Governor Andrew Cuomo
Andrew Cuomo’s fall from grace was dramatic, but 2024 marked an equally stunning political comeback. Once the dominant figure in New York politics, Cuomo faced scandal after scandal in 2021, including allegations of sexual harassment and underreported COVID-19 nursing home deaths. His political career seemed over as he resigned under pressure, facing the prospect of impeachment and mounting legal challenges.
However, time has a way of shifting perceptions. By 2024, Cuomo had successfully fought back against many of the allegations. Legal cases against him were dismissed, and some evidence suggested the original reports may have been selectively framed. Public opinion in New York began to warm toward Cuomo, especially as the city faced new leadership challenges. Polls showed Cuomo leading potential contenders in the 2025 New York City mayoral race, with 22% of Democrats backing him in a hypothetical primary.
With current Mayor Eric Adams embroiled in controversy, Cuomo’s return to politics seems imminent. His resurgence underscores the cyclical nature of political fortunes and positions him as a major player in New York’s political landscape once again.
#1: President-Elect Donald Trump
Donald Trump’s return to the presidency in 2024 is nothing short of historic. After the January 6th insurrection, Trump faced overwhelming political and legal challenges. His approval ratings plummeted to 39%, with 56% disapproval. He became the first president to be impeached twice and faced multiple criminal indictments. Many believed his political career was over, with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis emerging as the GOP’s new favorite.
Yet, Trump’s resilience redefined modern political comebacks. By the start of the GOP primaries, Trump had consolidated his base, outpacing DeSantis by wide margins. His return was marked by strategic appearances on alternative media platforms, like major podcasts, where he connected with disenchanted voters. By election day, Trump not only secured the presidency but also became the first Republican in decades to win the popular vote, flipping all seven battleground states.
Trump’s legal troubles also began to fade, with key charges dismissed and court rulings in his favor. His political dominance reshaped the GOP, rallying a fractured party behind him and positioning him as one of the most consequential figures in American political history.
While I did not vote for Trump, his comeback is undeniably one of the most remarkable achievements in recent political memory, solidifying him as 2024’s biggest political winner.
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