TIME magazine has highlighted Donald Trump’s return to the center of American public life with a bold cover marking his resurgence as the 47th President of the United States. The illustration, created by artist Tim O’Brien, shows Trump clearing President Joe Biden’s belongings from the Oval Office desk with a sweeping motion, symbolizing the transfer of power. The image is accompanied by the caption, “He’s Back.”
This is the fourth TIME cover by O’Brien featuring Trump, who has been a consistent figure in the magazine’s coverage since his 2016 election victory. TIME named Trump its Person of the Year in 2016 after his unexpected win over Hillary Clinton. The tradition, dating back to 1927, honors individuals or movements that significantly influence global events.
The accompanying article, “Donald Trump’s Disruption is Back,” describes the former president as “an unpredictable force for change,” acknowledging his transformative impact on the nation. The story notes Trump’s ability to redefine political discourse and energize his base, while also sparking intense reactions from opponents. The cover has prompted mixed reactions, with some celebrating the recognition and others canceling subscriptions, particularly those who supported Vice President Kamala Harris in the recent election.
TIME’s editors have previously featured a range of influential figures, from political leaders like Barack Obama and Pope Francis to activists such as Greta Thunberg and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This latest cover reinforces Trump’s status as a polarizing yet undeniably impactful figure in American and global politics.
