- Donald Trump triumphed over Kamala Harris in the 2024 US presidential race, marking a significant political comeback
- Kamala Harris formally conceded the race, pledging to ensure a peaceful transfer of power and urging continued activism for freedom and justice
- Barack Obama and the Obamas issued a statement expressing acceptance of the election results despite profound policy differences with the new administration
In a stunning political comeback, Donald Trump has won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris.
Harris, addressing the nation on Wednesday afternoon, November 6, formally conceded the presidential race at Howard University, marking the end of a fiercely contested campaign.
During her concession speech, Harris thanked her family, President Joe Biden, Governor Tim Walz, and her team of volunteers, expressing pride in the campaign she led. "I am so proud of the race we ran and the way we ran it," she said.
Kamala Harris concedes presidential race
Harris emphasised the importance of a peaceful transfer of power, confirming that she had spoken to Trump and assured him of her cooperation in ensuring a smooth transition.
She also said, “While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign. The fight for freedom, opportunity, for fairness and the dignity of all people, for the ideals at the heart of our nation, the ideals that reflect America at its best.”
At the close of her remarks, Harris called for continued civic engagement saying, “Stay engaged for the sake of freedom and justice and the future.”
She avoided direct criticisms of Trump, but said, “I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time, but for the benefit of us all, I hope that is not the case. But here's the thing, America, if it is, let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, brilliant, billion of stars, the light of optimism, of faith, of truth and service.”
Obama offers congratulatory message to Trump
Former President Barack Obama, along with his wife Michelle, offered a congratulatory message to Trump following the election results.
In a joint statement, the Obamas said, “We want to congratulate President Trump and Senator Vance on their victory.
“This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for, given our profound disagreements with the Republican ticket on a whole host of issues.”
“But living in a democracy is about recognising that our point of view won’t always win out and being willing to accept the peaceful transfer of power,” the Obamas added.
Speaking further, the former Democratic president said, “from a historic pandemic and price hikes resulting from the pandemic to rapid change and the feeling a lot of folks have that, no matter how hard they work, treading water is the best they can do.”
Obama pointed out that the difficulties confronting the United States have been part of a broader trend, making it harder for democratic incumbents worldwide “and last night showed that America is not immune,” Obama stated.
“But progress requires us to extend good faith and grace even to people with whom we deeply disagree.
“That’s how we’ve come this far, and it’s how we’ll keep building a country that is more fair and more just, more equal and more free,” the former Democratic president added.
Donald Trump’s Second Coming: What to expect from US president-elect
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that as Donald Trump prepares to take office in January, the world’s attention is focused on the implications of his presidency.
TheRadar compiled some policies Trump had advocated for during his campaign and what they could mean for the future.