As former U.S. President Donald Trump appears poised for a historic return to the White House, world leaders swiftly offered their congratulations, marking a response to Trump’s unexpected comeback. While the VOA has not yet declared an official winner, projections indicate that Trump has overcome his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, in a series of critical swing states, rekindling relationships with allies and signaling potential challenges for diplomatic and military alliances worldwide.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one of Trump’s staunchest allies during his first term, was among the first to extend his congratulations. In a message underscoring the “great alliance between Israel and America,” Netanyahu framed Trump’s apparent win as a “powerful recommitment” to the longstanding U.S.-Israel relationship. Similarly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized Trump’s “peace through strength” approach, expressing optimism that a second Trump presidency could expedite a peaceful resolution to Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte echoed these sentiments, acknowledging that Trump’s leadership will be “key to keeping our Alliance strong.” Trump’s first term was marked by criticism of NATO, as he argued for increased European contributions to defense spending. Yet, in his congratulatory message, Rutte focused on the opportunity for NATO to reinforce its strategic stability, a notion echoed by European leaders aiming to smooth relations with the Trump administration.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who had a complicated relationship with Trump during his initial tenure, congratulated the president-elect and expressed readiness to collaborate on mutual goals, particularly regarding defense, innovation, and climate policy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasizing the “special relationship” between the U.K. and the U.S., expressed confidence in continued cooperation on issues from security to technological innovation.

Across Europe, congratulations came from both traditional allies and populist leaders. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, praised the “true partnership” between the U.S. and the EU, a relationship previously tested by Trump’s imposition of tariffs on European imports. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a long-time Trump supporter, called his win the “biggest comeback in U.S. political history,” underscoring Orban’s alignment with Trump’s conservative policies.

Asia’s leaders followed suit, marking what they hope will be a prosperous chapter for their countries’ relations with Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling Trump a friend, expressed eagerness to strengthen U.S.-India collaboration on strategic and economic fronts, building on their close rapport from Trump’s prior term. Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed their confidence in the enduring U.S. partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. Marcos Jr. framed the U.S.-Philippines alliance as a “force for good,” while Albanese highlighted shared values and security commitments.

Notably absent from the congratulatory messages was Russian President Vladimir Putin, though former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev took to social media to celebrate Harris’s apparent loss, signaling the Kremlin’s ongoing interest in U.S. internal politics.

With Trump on the brink of an official second term, international allies and adversaries alike brace for an era marked by an “America First” approach that is likely to reshape alliances and foreign policy priorities in the coming years.

Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th president of the United States following a hard-fought campaign and victories in critical battleground states, including Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. His path to the White House was paved with significant wins across traditionally competitive regions, securing at least 267 electoral votes and surpassing the 270 required majority. Despite an early advantage in solidly blue states, Vice President Kamala Harris faced an uphill battle as Trump clinched pivotal victories in Georgia and North Carolina, effectively closing the path to a Harris win.

This election represents a historic moment, marking Trump as the first president since Grover Cleveland in the 1890s to serve non-consecutive terms. Addressing his supporters at a Florida rally, Trump credited his victory to what he described as “the greatest political movement of all time,” pledging to “fix our borders” and work toward a “strong, safe, and prosperous America.”

The Republican Party also regained control of the Senate in Tuesday’s elections, though the House majority remains uncertain as results continue to come in. The mixed results reflect a fragmented political landscape, leaving both parties bracing for potential recounts and legal disputes. Complexities surrounding state-specific voting rules, particularly around mail-in ballots and counting processes, could mean additional delays. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns are prepared with legal teams to monitor and, if needed, challenge results.

As the world watches, one of the key issues for the incoming administration will be the U.S. relationship with China, particularly in light of ongoing tensions over Taiwan, trade, and China’s increased presence in the South China Sea. Vincent Wang, a foreign policy expert from Adelphi University, noted that China may alter its approach depending on the U.S. leader. While Wang suggested that China might pursue an “expanded gray area strategy” under a Harris administration, the unpredictability of a Trump-led White House could serve as a deterrent, given Trump’s history of imposing sudden tariffs and taking aggressive stances.

The president-elect is set to assume office on January 20, 2025, marking the formal start of his four-year term. With tensions across global hotspots—including Ukraine and the Israel-Gaza conflict—the next administration will face mounting international challenges as it begins another chapter of American foreign and domestic policy.

The recent assassination attempt on Mohamed Kahin, the Minister of Internal Affairs of Somaliland, has heightened tensions in the lead-up to the November 13 elections, spotlighting the deepening conflict between the government and opposition forces in the region. The minister, a respected figure in Somaliland’s independence struggle, was reportedly targeted by the Gacan Libah rebels, an armed group with alleged ties to the opposition Wadani party, as he attempted to address their establishment of military bases in eastern Somaliland.

As November 13 Approaches, Citizens Prepare to Affirm Their Identity and Shape Their Future Through Peaceful Elections.

Somaliland stands as a beacon of hope and democracy, poised to conduct its elections on November 13, 2024. Unlike many nations on the continent, Somaliland has successfully cultivated a unique political environment characterized by peace, stability, and civic engagement, despite lacking international recognition. As the people of Somaliland prepare to cast their ballots, it is essential to reflect on what makes this nation a shining example of democracy in Africa.

Somaliland’s electoral process is deeply rooted in traditions of consensus and community involvement. The peaceful coexistence of its diverse clans, alongside a commitment to free and fair elections, has fostered a political landscape where citizens actively engage in governance. Unlike many African nations grappling with electoral violence and corruption, Somaliland has demonstrated that democratic processes can flourish even in the absence of official recognition. The upcoming elections reflect the people’s desire for self-determination and their unwavering commitment to shaping their future.

For the citizens of Somaliland, the stakes are high. Voting is not just a civic duty; it is an opportunity to affirm their identity and aspirations. Somalilanders understand the pain of political instability, and they yearn for continued peace and prosperity. By electing leaders who prioritize democracy and good governance, citizens can enhance their lives and solidify Somaliland’s place on the world stage. Real-world testimonials from past voters illustrate the pride and hope that comes with participating in this unique electoral exercise, with many expressing how their votes represent a commitment to a brighter future.

The global community should take note. Somaliland is a living testament to the power of democracy; its success serves as a model for other nations striving for stability and recognition. The world has witnessed how this unrecognized territory has thrived in peace, sustainable development, and democratic ideals. As Somalilanders head to the polls, they have the chance to declare their desire for greater global acknowledgment and support.

I urge every eligible voter to make their voice heard this November. Your vote is a powerful statement of unity and resilience. As you step into the ballot box, remember that you are not only casting a vote for your future but also sending a message to the world about the potential of Somaliland as a democratically recognized entity in Africa.

Somaliland democracy is not just a local solution; it is a testament to what Africa can achieve when given the chance. By investing your vote in this democratic process, you contribute to a wave of hope that can inspire others across the continent. Let’s show the world that Somaliland is more than a dream; it is a flourishing reality deserving of recognition.

The results of the U.S. presidential election, held on November 5, could emerge as quickly as election night or extend over several days due to an especially close contest between incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Media networks, which traditionally declare a winner based on projected outcomes shortly after polls close, may exercise greater caution this year given tight polling in several key states, with early results anticipated from regions like Georgia and North Carolina but extended counting expected elsewhere.

Expected Timelines for Results

For decades, the pace of results has varied significantly. In recent history, some elections have seen results declared on the night of the vote or the following morning, as in 2016 when Trump was declared the winner around 3:00 a.m. EST, while others have stretched days, notably 2020 when results weren’t called until four days post-election. Even longer delays occurred in 2000, when the Florida recount postponed the outcome until the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in mid-December. This year, voters may experience delays in pivotal swing states, each of which has unique procedures and timelines:

• Georgia: Polls close at 7:00 p.m. EST, and officials expect about 75% of votes counted within the first hours, though final results may take longer.
• North Carolina: Closing at 7:30 p.m. EST, North Carolina plans to announce results that night, though hurricane damage could impact counting in specific areas.
• Pennsylvania: Voting concludes at 8:00 p.m. EST, yet counting only starts on Election Day morning. As a result, experts suggest it may take 24 hours or more to estimate a winner.
• Michigan: Votes wrap at 9:00 p.m. EST, with officials able to count early ballots but prohibited from releasing results until polls close. A complete result may come by the end of Wednesday.
• Wisconsin: With polls closing at 9:00 p.m. EST, smaller counties are expected to report quickly, but populous areas will likely push a complete count into Wednesday.
• Arizona: Preliminary figures might emerge by 10:00 p.m. EST, but due to extensive use of mail-in ballots, full results could take days.
• Nevada: Late-arriving mail ballots, valid if postmarked by Election Day, can arrive until November 9, extending the timeline.

The Vote-Counting Process

Ballot counting generally begins with in-person votes cast on Election Day, followed by early votes and then mail-in ballots, the latter sometimes delayed by verification processes. Election officials undertake a meticulous review—known as canvassing—where ballots are validated, examined for issues, and scanned to tally results. This process is conducted under strict regulations about observer presence and ballot handling to uphold transparency.

In swing states, recounts could further extend the timeline. For example, Pennsylvania requires an automatic recount if the margin between candidates is less than 0.5%, which could become necessary in a close race. Additionally, over 100 pre-election lawsuits—many involving voter eligibility and processes—could lead to challenges that delay the final results.

Potential for Legal Challenges

Post-election challenges may arise, as happened in 2020 when former President Trump disputed results in several states, alleging voter fraud. Since then, reforms have aimed to clarify the process for certifying results, particularly in the role of the Vice President and limits on Congressional objections to state-certified results. Despite these reforms, some election observers anticipate possible state and local-level challenges that could delay certification.

Key Dates and Procedures Following the Election

The electoral college system ultimately decides the presidency, not the popular vote alone. Each state awards a set number of electoral votes to the candidate with the most votes in that state, confirmed in meetings held by December 17. Congress then counts the electoral votes on January 6, a final confirmation step before the inauguration.

The inauguration itself is scheduled for January 20, 2025, on the U.S. Capitol grounds, marking the start of the new president’s four-year term.

Hours before the U.S. presidential election, intelligence agencies issued a stark warning, alerting voters to a surge in foreign influence operations—primarily attributed to Russian actors—aimed at stoking distrust and division among Americans. The joint statement from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the FBI, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) highlighted that a wave of deceptive videos and inflammatory articles is intensifying, particularly targeting swing states where the election outcome could hinge on narrow margins.

“Russia is the most active threat,” the agencies reported, describing a pattern of manufactured content designed to question the legitimacy of the election and provoke hostility among voters. According to the intelligence assessment, the campaigns involve fabricated narratives suggesting that Americans are turning violent against each other based on political affiliations, with Kremlin-linked sources disseminating these narratives through social media and news channels.

The timing of this warning is significant, following earlier reports in which intelligence officials have cautioned that foreign actors—including Russia, Iran, and China—are stepping up influence campaigns aimed at undermining trust in U.S. democratic systems. Specifically, U.S. intelligence has documented Russian-linked media circulating false stories about alleged election fraud, such as claims of a fabricated interview alleging voter fraud in Arizona to benefit Vice President Kamala Harris, and other clips purporting to show fraudulent ballot practices.

While foreign manipulation efforts are a longstanding challenge, CISA remains confident in the resilience of the U.S. election infrastructure. CISA Director Jen Easterly underscored that the decentralized nature of U.S. elections and the rigorous cybersecurity measures in place make it exceedingly unlikely for foreign adversaries to alter the vote tally or manipulate the outcome undetected. Each state runs its own voting system, disconnected from the internet, and nearly all U.S. voters cast ballots in jurisdictions that maintain paper trails as a safeguard. Since early 2023, CISA has conducted over 700 cybersecurity assessments, along with extensive training and exercises with state and local election officials to strengthen system defenses.

Nevertheless, Election Day disruptions, including minor cyber incidents, are anticipated. The National Association of State Election Directors and the National Association of Secretaries of State urged voters to anticipate typical logistical challenges like delays, power outages, or brief interruptions. On a more concerning note, CISA has documented recent attempts to disable official election websites through distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks and even isolated cases of attempted arson at ballot drop boxes. CISA officials caution that such incidents are likely to persist through Election Day and in its aftermath, though they have yet to affect core election infrastructure.

The threat of foreign influence campaigns appears more focused on shaping perceptions than on hacking infrastructure directly. Senior CISA officials warned that mundane setbacks, such as power outages, could be manipulated by adversaries to heighten public anxiety over election security. Notably, recent Russian influence efforts have circulated widely on social media, often in short, inflammatory video formats designed to gain traction quickly.

However, experts note that these efforts have had limited reach outside niche social media platforms. According to Brian Liston, a senior threat analyst with Recorded Future’s Insikt Group, most Russian-influenced content remains confined to sites like Telegram and less mainstream social media. However, analysts like Audrey McCabe from Common Cause caution that shifts in social media policies, such as Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter (now X), have reduced content moderation across platforms, creating a “hotbed” for misinformation that risks spilling over into more widely used networks.

In response to escalating online threats, CISA and state election officials have implemented enhanced security measures to protect polling locations and election personnel, who have faced increasing threats over recent election cycles. “We have seen very real threats of violence targeting public servants,” said a senior CISA official, underscoring the need for vigilance in safeguarding election workers and voters alike.

Despite these tensions, authorities affirm that no credible, specific threats to physical polling sites have surfaced. CISA director Easterly encouraged voters to proceed with confidence, assuring them of robust protections against any efforts to disrupt or influence the democratic process at polling stations.

As of the latest counts, more than 77 million Americans have cast their ballots during the early voting period, with millions more expected on Election Day. Amid the broader efforts to sow division, U.S. officials are calling for unity, urging voters to recognize and resist attempts to divide Americans during a critical moment in the nation’s democratic process.

With the U.S. election on November 5, Somali Americans, like many communities across the nation, are mobilizing in significant numbers as they look to make their voices heard in a highly consequential vote. As the contest between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump remains razor-thin, communities across the U.S., including Somali Americans, anticipate the outcomes that could take longer than usual to be confirmed due to the close race and anticipated recounts in key battleground states.

Key States and Projected Timelines

The trajectory of the election will likely hinge on the outcomes in pivotal states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, where local rules and high volumes of votes are expected to delay the final tally. Here’s how the timeline may look in critical regions:

• Pennsylvania may not have a clear winner until at least 24 hours post-vote due to its policy of starting the count only on Election Day morning.
• Georgia is expected to count about 75% of votes within hours after polls close, offering an early snapshot of results.
• Arizona may report initial results the night of the election, but the final count could extend days due to the processing of mail-in ballots, including those cast on Election Day itself.
• Nevada allows mail-in ballots to be received up to November 9, possibly adding days before results solidify.

Vote-Counting Process and Transparency

The process of counting votes is governed by stringent rules to uphold accuracy and transparency, including verification, which involves checking ballot integrity and cross-verifying against active voter rolls. Votes are tallied through electronic scanners, with some jurisdictions opting for manual counting for accuracy. The canvassing process—the official review of all ballots—is closely monitored, with partisan observers permitted to oversee and raise objections where discrepancies arise.

Possible Legal and Electoral Challenges

Given the contentious nature of this election, legal challenges are expected to play a role, particularly in swing states. Over 100 pre-election lawsuits have been filed, many centered on voter eligibility and roll management. If the margins are exceptionally tight, automatic recounts in states like Pennsylvania could prolong the process further.

Despite recent electoral reforms to prevent delays and clarify the Vice President’s role in the certification process, election watchers anticipate that challenges at the state level could delay certification of results. Observers will likely closely monitor local officials and party affiliates to ensure that vote counts reflect the electorate’s will, as communities, including Somali Americans, push for a transparent and inclusive process.

The Role of Somali Americans and Other Communities of Color

For Somali Americans, the election is not only a chance to shape the country’s future but also a reflection of their rising influence within the U.S. political landscape. The community has made strides in civic engagement, with leaders and advocacy groups encouraging turnout and educating voters on the importance of their participation.

Inauguration Day

Regardless of when the results are finalized, the president-elect will take office on January 20, 2025, during the official inauguration ceremony at the U.S. Capitol. This tradition, marking the peaceful transition of power, underscores the importance of every vote in defining the nation’s course.

As Election Day looms, Erie County in Pennsylvania stands at the epicenter of a high-stakes political battle, capturing the attention of strategists and campaign officials nationwide. The county, which has predicted the winner of the last four presidential elections, mirrors broader national trends and remains a key bellwether in a closely contested race.

“Erie County is such a microcosm of the entire nation,” explains Jeff Bloodworth, a history professor at Gannon University. The area, noted for its predominantly white and working-class demographic, is emblematic of Pennsylvania’s political landscape—leaning slightly whiter, poorer, and less educated than state averages. Such factors have made it a competitive arena for both Democratic and Republican campaigns, with presidential candidates focusing intently on this county in the final stretch.

Recent campaign visits reflect each party’s intensified efforts to mobilize voters. Vice President Kamala Harris, speaking at a recent rally, emphasized the county’s role as a “pivot” that could ultimately forecast the national outcome. Former President Donald Trump, meanwhile, played to his base, asserting that workers once loyal to the Democratic Party had become “Trump Republicans,” rallying for promises of prosperity.

Democrats traditionally perform well within the city limits, but Erie County’s rural enclaves are heavily Republican. Sam Talarico, chair of the local Democratic Party, underscored the importance of engaging their base directly: “We’re past the persuasion point. It’s about turnout, and nothing works better than a knock at the door.” Yet, in the rural regions, Trump loyalists like Harold Ross take a similar approach, albeit cautiously: “You could walk into a hardliner—a Democrat,” Ross notes, underscoring the need to tread lightly in an area where partisan lines blur in unexpected ways.

Despite their distinct strategies, Erie’s voters are united in their exhaustion from being the perennial focus of national campaigns. Mario Mazza, who manages his family’s vineyard along Lake Erie, speaks to the fatigue many feel amid the campaign frenzy. Mazza, whose father and uncle emigrated from Italy and grew their business over decades, notes a shared yearning for pragmatic policy solutions, especially on immigration—a vital concern for the agricultural community.

“Without labor, the agricultural machine in this country will grind to a halt,” Mazza emphasizes. The county’s Hispanic community, particularly an influx of Puerto Rican families, has partially offset Erie’s population decline and brought new energy to its economy. Local restaurant owner Leida Rodriguez says her customers feel the impact of inflation keenly and desire leadership focused on economic relief. “The cost of food, the rent going up—those are the issues people are looking at,” Rodriguez says, summarizing the pressing concerns of her patrons.

For all the attention Erie County garners, its demographic shifts hint at changing electoral dynamics. Erie’s Hispanic population has increased, adding a layer of complexity to the county’s political makeup. Yet, both Democrats and Republicans recognize that the rules may be different this time. Bloodworth acknowledges that assumptions favoring Democrats due to their voter registration edge may no longer hold. “Before Trump, you’d think, ‘The Democrats are organized; they’re going to win.’ But Trump has changed the rules of American politics.”

As the clock counts down, Erie County remains a focal point for campaigns seeking an edge in Pennsylvania, a state crucial for any presidential hopeful. Both sides agree: the stakes are extraordinarily high, and the county’s unpredictable voters could very well decide who occupies the White House.