Against all odds, Donald Trump has been re-elected as President. The result surprised many, but even more so was the scale of his victory. Trump secured higher vote counts in nearly every county across almost every state, leaving Democratic strategists scrambling to understand what went wrong.

One factor is clear: the ruling Democrats couldn't escape the negative impact of the post-COVID economy on lower and middle-income Americans. Despite promises and repeated warnings about Trump, Democrats failed to reassure voters. Desperate for change, Americans turned to a leader they felt was firm in his commitments. This shift echoes a global trend, as we've seen "strongman" leaders rising in countries unsettled by post-COVID economic and social upheaval.

Kamala's Candidacy

While Kamala Harris bears some responsibility, it's unfair to place all the blame on her. She had only three months to campaign after stepping in for Biden, whose approval rating had dipped to 40% with 70% of Americans feeling the country was on the wrong track. Tied closely to Biden's administration, she couldn't separate herself from its failures.

Kamala emphasized abortion rights, an issue that had energized Democrats in recent elections. However, by 2024, economic concerns had overtaken abortion as the primary voter issue. Her focus on Trump's dangers also fell flat; for a decade, people have heard enough about Trump to form their own conclusions.

Immigration

Beyond the economy, immigration remains a key concern across the voter spectrum. Trump's hardline stance resonated deeply, especially with voters who worry about the impact of uncontrolled immigration on America's identity and security. He painted a picture of the country as a "dustbin" where dangerous outsiders find refuge. Surprisingly, this rhetoric gained support among some Hispanic voters, many of whom saw additional immigration as a threat to their own jobs and safety.

This appeal also extended to African-Americans. Traditionally Democratic, some African-American voters were drawn to Trump's promises of strong leadership and law enforcement. In communities burdened by crime and poverty, some felt that Democrats' promises had delivered little change.

At a rally two weeks before the election, conservative radio host Tucker Carlson called Trump a "strict father." Many cheered. Carlson argued that for African-American and Hispanic communities, which he claimed lack "responsible father figures," Trump represented a strong hand to restore order. Instead of backlash, chants of "Daddy's home" erupted.

Middle East

Kamala's ambiguous stance on Israeli attacks in Gaza and Lebanon hurt her campaign. Biden's administration offered unconditional support for Israel, alienating Arab, Muslim, South Asian, and progressive American voters. Jewish voters in swing states, meanwhile, saw her as too lenient toward Palestinians.

The Elitist Democratic Party

The election underscored that the Democratic coalition forged in Obama's era has splintered. Once grounded in working-class and African-American support, the Democratic Party is now seen by many as an "elitist" entity, primarily focused on issues like transgender rights and abortion over economic survival. Voters looking to address immediate concerns felt overlooked by the party.

Bangladeshi-American Voters

Even some Bangladeshi-Americans, despite Trump's tough stance on immigration, supported him-many hoping his relationship with Modi would benefit them. Ironically, Trump's vow to deport 12 million "illegal" immigrants, even using military force, puts one in three Bangladeshi-Americans at risk, including those with U.S.-born children.

Trump supporters may soon face hard questions. When their neighbors and relatives are deported, and families are torn apart, will they feel a pang of responsibility? When children are left behind, will they still believe their vote was justified?

The writer is a journalist and author based in New York.