2016 election news
The 2016 United States presidential election was a highly contested and historic election that saw Donald Trump, a businessman and reality TV star, defeat Hillary Clinton, a former First Lady, Senator, and Secretary of State, to become the 45th President of the United States. Here are some key news stories and events from the 2016 election:
Primary Season
- The election season began with a crowded field of Republican candidates, including Trump, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and Jeb Bush, among others.
- On the Democratic side, Clinton and Bernie Sanders were the main contenders.
- Trump's unconventional campaign style and populist rhetoric resonated with many voters, particularly in the Republican primaries.
- Sanders' campaign gained momentum among young voters and independents, but ultimately lost to Clinton in the Democratic primaries.
General Election
- The general election campaign was marked by controversy and scandal, including Trump's comments on women, minorities, and immigrants, as well as Clinton's use of a private email server while Secretary of State.
- The FBI investigated Clinton's email server and ultimately recommended no charges be filed, but the controversy continued to dog her campaign.
- Trump's campaign was also marred by allegations of Russian interference and collusion, which were later confirmed by the Mueller investigation.
Debates and Scandals
- The three presidential debates between Trump and Clinton were highly watched and widely covered, with Trump's performance sparking controversy and criticism.
- The Access Hollywood tape, in which Trump made lewd comments about women, was released in October and sparked widespread outrage.
- The Clinton email scandal continued to unfold, with the FBI reopening its investigation in October.
Election Day
- On November 8, 2016, Trump won the election, carrying 304 electoral votes to Clinton's 227.
- Clinton won the popular vote by nearly 3 million votes, but Trump's victory in key swing states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Florida gave him the presidency.
- The election result was met with widespread protests and demonstrations across the country, with many expressing shock and dismay at Trump's victory.
Transition and Inauguration
- Trump's transition to the presidency was marked by controversy and chaos, including the appointment of several controversial cabinet members and the firing of acting Attorney General Sally Yates for refusing to enforce Trump's travel ban.
- Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2017, was attended by thousands of people and featured a speech in which Trump vowed to "make America great again."
Post-Election Developments
- The Mueller investigation, which was launched in May 2017, ultimately concluded that Russia had interfered in the election and that Trump's campaign had colluded with Russia.
- Trump's presidency was marked by numerous controversies and scandals, including the impeachment inquiry and the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Clinton has continued to be a prominent figure in Democratic politics, serving as a vocal critic of Trump and advocating for progressive policies.