Esther Duflo, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

According to a credible source, Nobel Prize in Economics 2019 Esther Duflo is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the economist's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.

UPDATE 11/08/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Duflo for Person of the Year?

The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 53-year-old economist, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Duflo so important is the potential and influence she now has, rather than anything she has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the economist have already been named ‘American Of The Year’ by some major American newspapers and even ‘Paris Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Paris (Esther Duflo's hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

A representative for the economist was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:

“#DufloPOY. Logical choice though I wouldn't have made the same one.”
— @TomMiller, 10 Aug 2026

“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveEsther”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 10 Aug 2026

“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Esther Duflo?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 10 Aug 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Esther Duflo?

Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.

Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?

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