Biden Vows ‘Peaceful and Orderly Transition’ as Trump Prepares for New Administration

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden addressed the nation on Thursday, stating that democracy prevailed despite significant losses for his party in the recent elections. He asserted that his administration’s accomplishments would endure, during a brief speech delivered from the White House.

“For some, this is a moment of victory; for others, a time of loss. Campaigns reflect competing visions, and we accept the country’s choice,” Biden conveyed, speaking for just over six minutes to his staff and administration officials in the Rose Garden.

In a notable turn, former President Donald Trump emerged victorious in the 2024 presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump secured crucial wins in swing states, including Georgia, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, accumulating 295 Electoral College votes compared to Harris’s 226, with 270 required for victory.

The Republican party also gained a Senate majority, increasing their seats to at least 52. Meanwhile, the outcome for the U.S. House remains uncertain, though trends indicate a possible GOP advantage as ballots continue to be tallied.

Biden, who faced Trump during the majority of the campaign, ended his reelection bid following criticisms stemming from a poor debate performance. In a significant gesture, he congratulated Trump via phone on Wednesday and proposed an in-person meeting to facilitate the White House transition—an act that Trump did not partake in after his own loss to Biden in 2020.

“I assured him that my administration would fully cooperate with his team for a peaceful transition,” Biden declared, emphasizing that the American public deserves such continuity.

The president highlighted discussions with Democratic nominee Harris, whom he praised as a remarkable public servant. “Her character has always impressed me,” Biden noted, acknowledging the inspiring nature of her campaign.

Biden remarked on the progress made during his tenure, stating, “Together, we’ve changed America for the better,” referencing the bipartisan infrastructure legislation enacted in November 2021. He expressed optimism about the long-term effects of their efforts.

In her concession, Harris reached out to Trump on Wednesday, following the election outcome. Speaking to supporters at Howard University, she urged acceptance of the electoral results, affirming, “A fundamental principle of American democracy is that we accept the results of an election.”

This election stands in contrast to the tumultuous aftermath of the 2020 presidential race, marked by Trump’s refusal to concede and subsequent attempts to challenge the results. His rhetoric culminated in the violent events of January 6, 2021, when a mob stormed the U.S. Capitol as Congress sought to certify the election results.

Last updated 11:32 a.m., Nov. 7, 2024