US talk show host Jimmy Kimmel fought to contain his emotions as he referred to Donald Trump’s electoral victory as a “disastrous evening.”
In his introductory monologue, he remarked that the decision was between a prosecutor and an offender “and we opted for the offender”.
Kimmel labeled it a “remarkably positive evening” for Russian President Vladimir Putin, alluding to apprehensions regarding America’s ongoing support for Ukraine.
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Jimmy Kimmel ranks among America’s most beloved television personalities. Pic: AP
Additionally, becoming visibly emotional, he stated: “It was a dreadful night for women, for children, for the countless industrious immigrants who contribute to this nation, for healthcare, for our environment, for science, for journalism, for justice, for freedom of expression.
“It was a dreadful night for the impoverished, for the middle class, for elderly individuals reliant on social security, for our partners in Ukraine, for NATO, for truth, democracy, and decency.
“And it was a dreadful night for all those who cast their votes against him. And guess what? It was an unfortunate night for everyone who voted in his favor too; they just haven’t come to that realization yet.”
Kimmel was not the sole US talk show host to voice disappointment regarding Mr. Trump‘s sweeping triumph in the elections.
Stephen Colbert commenced his show by declaring: “Well, this is a bummer; it has occurred once more.”
He continued: “Following a strange and brutal campaign driven by a desperate pursuit to avoid incarceration, Donald Trump has emerged victorious in the 2024 election. The profound shock and feeling of loss is immense.”
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Seth Meyers expressed similarly harsh opinions during his late-night NBC broadcast.
“I wouldn’t classify Donald Trump as a commendable individual; in fact, I would go so far as to label him a negative character,” he stated.
Nevertheless, the comedian acknowledged that he must recognize the outcome, as “half the nation perceives him as a commendable individual, or they simply do not mind his faults because they view him as an effective president”.
“That is the essence of democracy in America—an environment that is a privilege to inhabit,” Meyers remarked.
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The circumstances that led to Trump’s victory
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Kamala Harris received a plethora of celebrity endorsements throughout her campaign, including support from J-Lo, Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen, and Oprah Winfrey.
Nonetheless, the influence of these high-profile celebrities seemed to resonate little with substantial portions of the population as Ms. Harris was unable to secure vital swing states.
Mr. Trump also garnered celebrity support, notably from Tesla and X owner Elon Musk—who invested significantly in his re-election effort—and podcast sensation Joe Rogan, who welcomed Mr. Trump onto his program a fortnight ago.
