By Seli Baisie
As dawn broke over the United States, the world woke up to an unexpected headline: Donald Trump has won the U.S. election.
Social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), quickly became a melting pot of reactions as world leaders, celebrities, influencers, and citizens worldwide weighed in on what Trump’s win means for America and for the rest of the globe.
Here’s how people from Ghana and beyond are responding, as well as their perspectives on why Trump may be the right—or wrong—leader for the U.S.
Ghana Weighs In on Trump’s win
Reactions in Ghana have been mixed. Renowned New Patriotic Party (NPP) figure Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko posted on X, “My heart was with the woman of colour…” expressing his surprise.
My heart was with the woman of colour…
— Gabby Otchere-Darko (@GabbyDarko) November 6, 2024
Nana Kwame Bediako, a Ghanaian businessman and independent presidential candidate in Ghana’s December elections, congratulated President Trump on his win, tweeting, “@realDonaldTrump Even before you hit 270, I want to congratulate you on this historic victory. Two attempted assassinations, over 90 lawsuits, and you still triumphed. You are a man of steel, and that’s what the world needs at this point. Hopefully, we work together.”
@realDonaldTrump Even before you hit the 270, I want to congratulate you on this historic victory.
— Nana Kwame Bediako (@OsagyefoNKB) November 6, 2024
Two attempted assassinations, over 90 lawsuits and you still triumphed. You are a man of steel and that is what the world needs at this point. This is the greatest political… pic.twitter.com/SDntxUDhke
Sammy Gyamfi, Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), posted a cryptic photo of Trump and Ghana’s John Mahama, captioned, “What does this mean?”—a reference to both leaders’ receiving prayer support.
What does this mean? pic.twitter.com/mRmHtyBmxo
— Sammy Gyamfi (@SammyGyamfi_) November 6, 2024
Media strategist Chris Atadika commented on celebrity endorsements, tweeting, “Entertainment celebrity endorsements vs. corporate celebrity endorsements. Are there some lessons to learn from the U.S. 2024 elections? This calls for political marketing research.”
‘Entertainment celebrity endorsements vs Corporation celebrity endorsements’..some lessons to learn from the US 2024 elections? This certainly calls for some political marketing research.. pic.twitter.com/BhlaQxIQNx
— Chris Atadika (@chrisatadika) November 6, 2024
Prominent journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni also weighed in, saying, “Americans say Sankofa is not a taboo. What will Ghanaians say on December 7?” hinting at the possibility of a similar outcome in Ghana’s upcoming elections.
Americans say Sankofa is not a taboo. What will Ghanaians say on December 7?
— Manasseh Azure Awuni (@Manasseh_Azure) November 6, 2024
European Leaders Congratulate Trump
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his willingness to work with Trump for a second term, stating he’s “ready to work together.”
Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump. Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) November 6, 2024
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Trump, praising his stance on “peace through strength,” which Zelensky believes could help bring about “a fair peace” in Ukraine.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte echoed Zelensky’s sentiment, noting that Trump’s leadership will be “crucial” as the world faces “increasing global challenges.”
I just congratulated @realDonaldTrump on his election as President of the United States. His leadership will again be key to keeping our Alliance strong. I look forward to working with him again to advance peace through strength through #NATO.
— Mark Rutte (@SecGenNATO) November 6, 2024
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized her country’s strong alliance with the U.S., saying this bond is set to “grow even stronger” under Trump.
A nome mio e del Governo italiano, le più sincere congratulazioni al Presidente eletto degli Stati Uniti, Donald #Trump.
— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) November 6, 2024
Italia e Stati Uniti sono Nazioni “sorelle”, legate da un’alleanza incrollabile, valori comuni e una storica amicizia.
È un legame strategico, che sono certa…
Meanwhile, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala expressed his desire to maintain and enhance cooperation with the U.S., saying he hopes it will continue “for the benefit of our citizens.”
Congratulations to Donald Trump on winning the presidential election. Our shared goal is to ensure that the relations between our countries remain at the highest level, despite changes in administration, and that we continue to develop them for the benefit of our citizens.
— Petr Fiala (@P_Fiala) November 6, 2024
Mixed Emotions Worldwide
Global reactions reflect the deep divides Trump’s presidency brings out.
However, billionaire Elon Musk offered a different take, posting, “It’s going to be an interesting four years. Trump’s business-first approach could work wonders.” Musk’s support signals the sentiment among Trump’s proponents, who believe his hands-on, pro-business philosophy could yield economic growth despite controversies.
The people of America gave @realDonaldTrump a crystal clear mandate for change tonight
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 6, 2024
Why Trump? Supporters and Critics Explain
Trump’s supporters praise his straightforwardness, business acumen, and willingness to challenge traditional politics, arguing that his approach offers a fresh perspective. “He’s not afraid to say what he thinks, and that’s what we need—a leader who’s unfiltered and bold,” posted one user from Kenya.
Critics, however, highlight Trump’s divisive language and policies as a source of concern. Environmental activist Greta Thunberg posted, “A step backward for climate progress,” echoing fears among activists about his track record on environmental policies. Canadian political analyst Samantha Yu added, “Trump represents a brand of nationalism that feels more exclusionary. What message does that send to allies?”
Global Implications
Trump’s win undoubtedly holds weight in international discourse. In African nations, some see it as an opportunity to recalibrate relations, hoping a fresh start could bring new prospects for trade and investment. However, others worry that a U.S. leadership focused inward might disregard pressing global issues like climate change, international aid, and humanitarian cooperation.
As responses continue to pour in, the key question remains: can Trump’s approach bridge divides and foster a more inclusive global community? Time will tell, but for now, the world continues to react, analyze, and brace for what’s next.