TIME Reveals 6 Finalists For Person Of The Year
It’s a list that year after year sparks debate: the contenders for TIME Magazine’s Person of the Year. In 2024, that conversation carries heightened weight as global leaders, influencers, and disruptors step forward in a time of uncertainty and political upheaval.
From the corridors of power in Washington to the tumultuous streets of Russia, TIME has unveiled a shortlist that reflects a year marked by major elections, societal reckoning, and personal perseverance.
This year’s finalists include figures who are no strangers to headlines. Some are political powerhouses making comebacks, others are fresh faces breaking barriers. And a few, like former President Donald Trump, are reshaping the very direction of nations.
The 45th President of the United States made history yet again in 2024, becoming only the second president in American history to serve non-consecutive terms after winning the November election. Trump’s victory defied expectations and cemented his dominance within the Republican Party, as well as his broad appeal among working-class voters and disillusioned Americans. Riding a wave of voter dissatisfaction with the previous administration’s policies, Trump’s return to the White House signifies not just political resilience but a seismic shift in U.S. governance.
NOVI, MICHIGAN – OCTOBER 26: Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump arrives to speak during a campaign rally at Suburban Collection Showplace on October 26, 2024 in Novi,
TIME’s consideration of Trump is hardly a surprise. His influence on the American political landscape – whether admired or criticized – is undeniable.
Kamala Harris – Vice President Kamala Harris, once seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party, had a year filled with political highs and lows. After President Joe Biden stepped aside in July, Harris spearheaded a grueling 107-day presidential campaign. The effort to keep Democrats unified and energized faltered, however, culminating in her concession to Trump on November 6.
MOON TOWNSHIP, PENNSYLVANIA – AUGUST 18: Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks to reporters outside of Primanti Bros. Restaurant on August 18, 2024.
Benjamin Netanyahu – Israel’s Prime Minister remains a polarizing yet prominent global figure. In a year that saw intense military operations against Hamas following deadly attacks, Netanyahu’s leadership steered Israel through one of its most turbulent chapters in decades.
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 24: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks to reporters alongside Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) at the U.S. Capitol Building on July 24, 2024 in Washington,
Yulia Navalnaya – After the death of her husband, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Yulia Navalnaya emerged as a powerful figure on the world stage. Navalnaya’s unwavering courage in continuing her husband’s fight against authoritarianism has turned her into a symbol of resistance, both in Russia and beyond. TIME’s recognition of Navalnaya underscores the global yearning for democracy amid rising challenges to freedom.
Russia Moscow Alexei Navalny opposition leader and his wife Yulia Navalnaya at a protest rally on May 6, 2012
Kate Middleton – The Princess of Wales captured headlines this year not for royal duties, but for her deeply personal health struggles. Following a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment, Middleton brought public attention to the balance between privacy and the expectations placed on public figures. Her bravery and openness resonated with millions, solidifying her as a deeply admired, modern royal.
Westminster, London – June 17th 2023 Queen Camilla and the Princess of Wales return to Buckingham Palace after the Trooping the Colour.
Elon Musk – Tech mogul and political provocateur, Musk remains at the intersection of technology, innovation, and influence. From his ventures in artificial intelligence and space exploration to his political endorsement of Donald Trump, Musk has had a hand in reshaping conversations on progress, freedom of speech, and the future of humanity. His role in the 2024 election as a high-profile Trump supporter only expanded his influence.
FOLSOM, PENNSYLVANIA – OCTOBER 17: SpaceX and Tesla founder Elon Musk participates in a town hall-style meeting to promote early and absentee voting at Ridley High School on October 17, 2024 in Folsom
TIME’s selection, expected Thursday, will cap off a year defined by political realignment, personal courage, and societal transformation.