Supporters packed into Donald Trump’s election watch party in Palm Beach, Florida, buzzing with anticipation and hope. Among them was Carla Martin, a 47-year-old mother of three, who joked that the night felt “better than the birth” of her children. Surrounded by American flags and red MAGA caps, Martin danced and soaked up the celebratory energy, a sentiment shared by many in the crowd.
Mike Cordeiro, a Florida small business owner, expressed the enthusiasm that permeated the event. “It’s amazing,” he said, describing how Trump’s victory had redefined the political landscape. For many conservatives, the election wasn’t just a political win—it was deeply personal. Reagan Faulkner, a Republican college student, likened the feeling to a scene from Home Alone, saying, “I think that’s the overwhelming feeling that conservatives have”, according to the New York Times.
For others, the victory symbolized trust in Trump’s promises. Bill Womack, a Georgia utility worker, confidently predicted, “He’s going to start drilling, drilling, drilling. Prices are going to drop—on food, on everything.” Religious communities also celebrated. Fox News host Ainsley Earhardt highlighted viral videos of Trump supporters singing hymns and noted the significance of the abortion issue for evangelical voters.
Ronnie Graham, a business broker from North Carolina, went a step further, attributing Trump’s win to divine intervention. “I believe that God has saved him and spared his life so he can help bring back our republic,” he said. Despite the jubilation, some supporters acknowledged Trump’s controversial past. Chuck Seger from Maine admitted, “He said a few things that were pretty ridiculous, but I’m OK with it. The world needs to be woken up.”
Polling data provided insight into voters’ expectations and reactions. Before the election, 76% of Trump supporters and 74% of Harris supporters believed their candidate would win. Post-election emotions were starkly divided: 72% of Trump supporters felt relieved, and 69% were happy, while 73% of Harris supporters felt hopeless and 62% worried about the future, according to YouGov.
The economy played a key role in Trump’s success, with 74% of voters citing economic issues and inflation as decisive factors, followed by immigration at 65%. Beyond policies, many saw Trump as a voice for those excluded by the political establishment—a symbol of change and a champion for their frustrations and hopes.