Incumbents face major voter backlash in global elections during super year

In 2024, many incumbent governments worldwide faced significant voter backlash, marking a "super year" for elections. This trend included Donald Trump's recent victory in the U.S., part of a broader pattern where incumbents were ousted in 40 of 54 elections in Western democracies since the pandemic. Voter dissatisfaction has been driven by economic struggles, high inflation, and a general sense of disconnection from political elites. In Europe, the far right gained ground, while in Asia, ruling parties in South Korea and India lost significant support. In Africa, the African National Congress lost its parliamentary majority in South Africa, while Botswana saw a long-ruling party voted out. Mexico was an exception, with Claudia Sheinbaum winning the presidency, reflecting higher voter satisfaction with economic conditions there.