Post Reports

Trump ran to save himself in 2024. He won back America.

Jul 11, 2025
Isaac Arnsdorf, a Senior White House reporter at The Washington Post and co-author of '2024, How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America', shares insights into the surprising return of Donald Trump. The discussion reveals how Trump's legal battles paradoxically increased his popularity among Republicans. Arnsdorf also highlights campaign turbulence, emotional challenges for Biden, and the impact of events like Hunter Biden's messages and a significant assassination attempt on Trump's support.
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INSIGHT

How Trump's Legal Troubles Fueled His 2024 Comeback

Trump decided to run for president in 2024 largely because his multiple criminal prosecutions, including the FBI search of Mar-a-Lago, intensified in 2022. He saw running as his best hope to avoid legal consequences and was surprised and energized by how Republicans rallied around him despite these legal battles.

During the Republican primary, potential rivals like Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley emerged but ultimately failed to capitalize on Trump's weakened position. Trump skillfully used the optics of his legal challenges, even practicing his mugshot to control the narrative and garner sympathy.

This tactical embrace of adversity helped Trump dominate the Republican field and secure victory, illustrating how his legal troubles paradoxically strengthened his political base and campaign momentum.

INSIGHT

Trump's Legal Troubles Fuel Comeback

  • Trump decided to run for president again after the FBI search of Mar-a-Lago and mounting prosecutions against him.
  • He saw running as his best hope to avoid legal consequences and was surprised by Republican support despite his legal troubles.
ANECDOTE

Trump Practices Mugshot Appearance

  • Before his arraignment in Georgia, Trump practiced his mugshot to ensure it looked just right.
  • He understood the visual power of the moment and treated it as a valuable symbol.
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