TIME ‘Person of the Year 2024’: The 10 finalists are revealed

Since 1927, TIME magazine has named a person, group, or concept that had the biggest impact—a recognition of the individual, group, or concept that has had the greatest influence on the world over the past 12 months.

The ten finalists are chosen from a diverse array of global impact stories, each leaving an indelible mark on politics, culture, and society. 

In 2023, TIME selected pop superstar Taylor Swift as Person of the Year.

Other previous selections include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the “spirit of Ukraine” in 2022, tech titan Elon Musk in 2021, the Ebola fighters in 2014, and former U.S. President Barack Obama in 2012 and 2008.

Ten candidates have been shortlisted for TIME magazine's Person of the Year 2024.

Here are the finalists, in alphabetical order by last name.

Kamala Harris

After President Joe Biden’s surprise decision to end his re-election campaign in July, Vice President Kamala Harris embarked on a historic bid for the presidency. 

Her campaign focused on reproductive rights and democracy but ended in defeat to Donald Trump in November. Harris was previously honoured alongside Biden as TIME’s Person of the Year in 2020. 

Kate Middleton

The Princess of Wales captured public attention with her battle against cancer, revealing her diagnosis in March after weeks of speculation. Her resilience and openness sparked discussions about privacy and health for public figures. She was on TIME’s 2013 list of Most Influential People.  

Elon Musk

In 2024, Musk expanded his influence into politics, endorsing Donald Trump and co-developing a commission for government efficiency under the president-elect. The billionaire tech innovator, already known for his ventures in electric vehicles and space exploration, previously received TIME’s Person of the Year in 2021. 

Yulia Navalnaya

Following the death of her husband, Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, Navalnaya emerged as a symbol of resistance against Vladimir Putin’s regime. Her advocacy for democracy and human rights in Russia has drawn global recognition. 

Benjamin Netanyahu

The Israeli Prime Minister faced international scrutiny for his handling of the war with Hamas and Hezbollah. Despite the controversy, Netanyahu has maintained strong domestic support and continued military operations, reshaping geopolitics in the Middle East. 

Jerome Powell

 As U.S. Federal Reserve Chair, Powell navigated a turbulent economic year. Amid political tensions, he upheld the Federal Reserve’s independence, influencing key policies impacting millions of Americans. 

Joe Rogan

The podcaster remained a cultural force, with his show averaging 11 million listeners per episode. Rogan's interview with Donald Trump ahead of the U.S. election highlighted his role in shaping political discourse. 

Claudia Sheinbaum

Sheinbaum became Mexico’s first female president, focusing on social equity and standing firm against proposed U.S. tariffs. Her leadership marks a pivotal moment in Mexico’s history. 

Donald Trump

Making a historic political comeback, Trump won the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Despite legal controversies, his campaign energised young voters and reshaped the political landscape. 

Mark Zuckerberg

As Meta CEO, Zuckerberg faced scrutiny over social media’s impact on youth and misinformation during the election cycle. His leadership of Meta and advancements in AI cemented his influence. 

TIME’s “Person of the Year 2024” will be announced on December 12, celebrating the individual or concept that defined the year.

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