Former president and recent president-elect Donald Trump earned the title of “Time Magazine’s” 2024 Person of the Year, and singer Elton John earned the title Icon of the Year because of their significant impacts on events in the year.
Individuals that had the most influence on the news and the world over the year are bestowed the title Person of the Year by “Time Magazine.” The award winner’s impact on global events, and their contribution to shaping the world for better or worse is the biggest factor for determining their eligibility for the award. Trump has played one of the largest roles in politics and history, resulting in him winning the Person of the Year for a second time.
“His sole debate with President Joe Biden in June led to his opponent’s eventual exit from the race,” writer Sam Jacob said for “Time.” “In the sprint that followed, he outlasted Vice President Kamala Harris, sweeping all seven swing states and emerging from the election at the height of his popularity.”
Jacob, who is one of many with the same opinion, said Trump’s achievement of winning the Person of the Year for 2024 was not a difficult choice. Some students in the school like freshman Mallory Abogado came to the same conclusion.
“It’s honestly kind of not surprising because he had a lot of effect on people,” Abogado said. “I wouldn’t be influenced because I don’t pay attention”
On the other hand, Icon of the Year acknowledges individuals who create popular culture, arts, and entertainment that influences people and creates a connection with the audience. The award focuses on the lasting legacy of the individual’s work instead of the immediate impact. John’s best-selling songs like “Rocketman,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and “I’m Still Standing,” have influenced people since the 1970s.
“Elton’s been a hitmaker nearly from the start,” writer Sophia Lonnroth said on “Her Campus.” “His 1970 gem “Your Song,” from his self-titled second LP, reached the upper tier of international charts that year. Eighteen months later, “Rocket Man” began his run in the Top 10, scoring his first Number Ones soon after with “Crocodile Rock” and “Bennie and the Jets.”
The awards highlighted the most influential figures of the present moment; however, the titles themselves don’t draw much attention from students.
“I feel like it is not that important,” junior Saba David said. “If it is someone you look up to it might be important to you, but other than that it doesn’t matter.”
Both titles recognize the diverse ways individuals in power can influence the world, by acknowledging different forms of impact and legacy.
