In a heartfelt address following Donald Trump’s election victory, President Joe Biden assured Americans of his commitment to a smooth and peaceful transition of power, encouraging the nation to unite despite the election’s outcome.
Speaking from the White House Rose Garden, Biden acknowledged the defeat with grace, expressing pride in his administration’s accomplishments over the past term and highlighting the importance of coming together for the good of the country. He urged Americans to accept the democratic process and emphasized that a loss doesn’t mean the values they fought for are defeated.
Biden expressed his gratitude to Vice President Kamala Harris, congratulating her on a historic and “inspiring campaign.” In a phone call, he invited President-elect Trump to meet at the White House to begin the transition process and discussed the need for unity and bipartisan cooperation in the coming years.
Biden also reaffirmed his administration’s legacy, citing accomplishments like his infrastructure plan and a strengthened economy. He assured the American people that, while the effects of some policies may not be immediately visible, they had laid the groundwork for long-term benefits.
In the months leading to Inauguration Day, Biden and his team plan to solidify key initiatives, including continued support for Ukraine, peace efforts in the Middle East, and protections for federal workers. He will also need to consider potential pardons, including one for his son, Hunter Biden, amid criticism and calls for retribution from Trump regarding his Justice Department’s actions.
Vice President Kamala Harris, in her own emotional concession speech, acknowledged the disappointment of her supporters, encouraging them to keep fighting for the values they share. Addressing a crowd at Howard University, she vowed to assist in the peaceful transition and to continue advocating for the causes she championed, assuring her supporters that the outcome does not diminish America’s promise or their mission to achieve it.