US President Joe Biden vowed to oversee a "peaceful and orderly" transition of power to President-elect Donald Trump following the 2024 election.
In his address from the White House Rose Garden, Biden took the opportunity to highlight his administration’s achievements, noting that several legislative measures passed during his tenure were beginning to have a significant impact on Americans. “Much of the work we’ve done is already being felt by the American people,” Biden said. “But the vast majority of it will be felt over the next 10 years.”
He pointed specifically to over a trillion dollars in infrastructure investments aimed at improving the lives of people in rural and economically distressed communities.
The president also called for national unity in the aftermath of a divisive election. "Something I hope we can do, no matter who you voted for, is see each other, not as adversaries, but as fellow Americans," Biden said, emphasising the need to “bring down the temperature” of US politics.
Biden, in his remarks, acknowledged the deep emotions stirred by the election outcome, recognising that for some, it was a time of victory, while for others, it represented a loss. He urged Americans to accept the result, stating, "You can’t love your country only when you win."
Praising US Vice President Kamala Harris, Biden described her as a woman of "true character" who ran an inspiring campaign. “She has a backbone like a ramrod, and she’s got great character,” Biden remarked, further emphasising the importance of integrity in leadership.
In the wake of the election results, Biden also addressed the country’s resilience. "Setbacks are unavoidable, but giving up is unforgivable," he said, reminding Americans that "America endures."
– Kamala Harris concedes US election, congratulates President-elect Donald Trump –
Earlier, US Vice President and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris officially conceded the 2024 presidential election to President-elect Donald Trump in a brief but momentous call.
CNN reported that Harris reached out to Trump to congratulate him on his victory. A senior aide stated that Harris acknowledged Trump’s win and emphasised the importance of a peaceful transfer of power, stressing her hope that he would serve as "a president for all Americans."
According to a source familiar with the conversation, the call was brief, lasting only a few minutes.
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