US Election 2024: Obama offers congratulations as Harris pledges peaceful transition
Former President Barack Obama has congratulated Republican Donald Trump on his victory in the presidential election held on Tuesday, November 5.
Obama, along with his wife Michelle, issued the statement on Wednesday, November 6.
While acknowledging that the election result was not what he had hoped for, given his significant disagreements with Trump on various issues, Obama emphasized the importance of living in a democracy. He noted that it is essential to accept the peaceful transfer of power, even when the outcome doesn’t align with one’s own views.
Reflecting on the challenges the country has faced in recent years—including a historic pandemic and economic hardships—Obama expressed optimism, stating that these issues are solvable, provided Americans are willing to listen to one another and uphold the core constitutional principles and democratic norms that have shaped the nation.
“In a country as large and diverse as ours, we won’t always agree on everything,” Obama said. “But progress requires extending good faith and grace, even to those we strongly disagree with. That’s how we’ve come this far, and that’s how we’ll continue to build a more just, fair, and equal America.”
Obama praised Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential contender, as well as Tim Walz, his former vice president and fellow Democratic contender, for running a “remarkable” campaign.
In the final days of the race, Obama offered his strong support for Harris, highlighting her commitment to defending the American people.
In her concession speech on Wednesday, November 5, Harris assured the nation of a peaceful transfer of power to Donald Trump. She also encouraged her supporters to “keep fighting” for their ideals despite the outcome of the election.
“We must accept the results of this election. Earlier today, I spoke with President-elect Trump and congratulated him on his victory.”
“I also told him that we will help him and his team with their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transfer of power.”
Harris said in a speech at her alma mater, Howard University, in Washington.
Harris opened her speech to a jubilant throng by imploring her supporters to continue fighting for their beliefs despite their deep loss a day after Trump’s resounding victory.
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at NeptunePrime.
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