Donald Trump, Grover Cleveland only US presidents in history to serve non-consecutive terms
President-elect Donald Trump made history early Wednesday morning by defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race, securing his second term in the White House. This victory marks Trump as only the second president in U.S. history to serve non-consecutive terms, following in the footsteps of Grover Cleveland.
Grover Cleveland, born in New Jersey and raised in New York, was the first Democrat elected president after the Civil War. During his first term in office, he faced criticism for his veto of private pension bills for Civil War veterans and a proposed bill to provide Texas farmers with federal funds. Cleveland also called for a reduction in high protective tariffs and signed the Interstate Commerce Act in 1887, which regulated railroads.
Cleveland’s first term also saw his marriage to Frances Folsom, who became the first lady at just 21 years old. Cleveland and Folsom were married in the White House, making him the only president to have a White House wedding to this day.
Four years after his first term, Cleveland ran for re-election but was defeated by Republican Benjamin Harrison. In a rematch in 1892, Cleveland emerged victorious, becoming the first president to win non-consecutive terms. He campaigned on a platform to reduce tariffs, ultimately securing his return to the White House.
Similarly, Donald Trump’s successful re-election bid comes after his initial victory in 2016 against Hillary Clinton. Trump, a businessman with a background in real estate development, was inaugurated in 2017 and served a term that included policies like tax cuts, energy independence, and the creation of the Space Force.
After losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Trump announced his campaign for re-election shortly after the 2022 midterm elections. Facing off against Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump emerged victorious in the 2024 election, becoming the 45th and 47th U.S. president.
In his address to the American people following his win, Trump expressed gratitude and pledged to fight for the American people and their future. He highlighted the strength of his movement and promised to deliver a strong, safe, and prosperous America for future generations.
As President-elect Trump prepares to take office for his second term in January, the nation awaits to see what his administration will bring and how he will continue to shape the course of American politics.
