Former US President Barack Obama on Wednesday congratulated Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance following their election victory and highlighted the importance of upholding democratic values and the peaceful transition of power.
“This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for,” Obama said. “But living in a democracy is about recognizing that our point of view won’t always win out, and being willing to accept the peaceful transfer of power.”
Obama also expressed pride in the campaign efforts of vice president Kamala Harris and her running mate, governor Tim Walz, acknowledging the impact of their work despite the loss. “Michelle and I could not be prouder of vice president Harris and governor Walz – two extraordinary public servants who ran a remarkable campaign,” he added, extending gratitude to the volunteers and supporters who dedicated themselves to the Democratic cause.
Obama’s statement also acknowledged the complex backdrop of recent years, marked by a pandemic, economic instability, and rapid social changes. “Those conditions have created headwinds for democratic incumbents around the world, and last night showed that America is not immune,” he noted.
Highlighting the core values that shape American democracy, Obama encouraged citizens to embrace grace and understanding, even amidst deep disagreements. “In a country as big and diverse as ours, we won’t always see eye-to-eye on everything. 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,” he said.
Kamala Harris concedes defeat
Shortly after conceding the presidential race to Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris urged supporters to accept the election results and pledged to ensure a peaceful transfer of power to the Republican leader. In an emotional concession speech at her alma mater Howard University, 60-year-old Harris said the “light of America’s promise will always burn bright” and vowed to keep up the “fight” that fuelled her campaign.
“My heart is full today – full of gratitude for the trust you have placed in me, full of love for our country, and full of resolve,” she said.
“The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for. But hear me when I say, the light of America’s promise will always burn bright,” she added.