Washington- President Biden is expected to address the nation Thursday morning following the former president’s speech. Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election.
The president, who until four months ago was seeking re-election himselfwill address the nation on the election results and the transition of power, with his predecessor set to return to the White House.
Mr. Biden spoke with Vice President Kamala Harris on the phone Wednesday to congratulate her on her campaign, despite the defeat. In a statement, the president called Harris a “tremendous partner and public servant” who “stepped up and ran a historic campaign.”
“Her story represents the best of American history. And as she made clear today, I have no doubt that she will continue to write that history,” Mr. Biden said. He added what he said when he endorsed her to run: that choosing Harris as his running mate was “the best decision I’ve made.”
The president also spoke with Trump on Wednesday, expressing his commitment to a smooth transition — and inviting the president-elect to a meeting at the White House.
Ben Curtis/AP
The former president “looks forward to this meeting,” Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He said Trump “very much appreciated that call.”
Mr Biden’s address to the nation comes after Harris officially granted race Wednesday afternoon in a speech from her alma mater, Howard University, where she stressed that the results of the election must be accepted while reiterating her commitment to a peaceful transfer of power.
“A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results,” Harris said. She said this principle “distinguishes democracy from monarchy and tyranny.”
The vice-president, who entered the countryside In late July, she said that while she conceded the election, “I don’t recognize the fight that fueled this campaign.”
“Don’t despair. This is not the time to give up. This is the time to roll up our sleeves,” Harris continued. “Now is the time to organize, mobilize and stay committed for the sake of freedom, justice and the future we all know we can build together.”
