Addressing supporters at Howard University, Harris expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her by voters, while acknowledging the pain felt by her supporters following her loss. She reaffirmed her commitment to a peaceful transition, assuring that the outgoing administration would cooperate with the new leadership.
"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," Harris said on Wednesday at her alma mater, Howard University, in Washington, D.C.
"The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for. But ... the light of America's promise will always burn bright as long as we never give up," Harris said.
In her first post-election statement, Harris encouraged Americans to maintain hope even in difficult times, quoting a saying, "only when it is dark enough can you see the stars." Harris reminded her followers that the values they campaigned for remain vital, urging them to continue advocating for a brighter future despite the defeat. "While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign.", she added.
Harris also stated that she will never give up the fight to protect the schools and streets from gun violence, and America, we will never give up the fight for democracy, for the rule of law, for equal justice, and for the sacred idea that every one of us, no matter who we are or where we start out, has certain fundamental rights and freedoms that must be respected and upheld."
"I am so proud of the race we ran and the way we ran it. Over the 107 days of this campaign, we have been intentional about building community and building coalitions, bringing people together from every walk of life and background, by the love of country, with enthusiasm and joy in our fight for America's future. And we did it with the knowledge that we all have so much more in common than what separates us. Now, I know folks are feeling and experiencing a range of emotions right now. I get it. But we must accept the results of this election," she said.
Harris said, "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. A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results. That principle, as much as any other, distinguishes democracy from monarchy or tyranny. And anyone who seeks the public trust must honour it. At the same time, in our nation, we owe loyalty not to a president or a party, but to the Constitution of the United States, and loyalty to our conscience and to our God. My allegiance to all three is why I am here to say, while I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fuelled this campaign,".
The new administration, led by Trump, is expected to assume office following a formal transfer process. This victory was solidified by wins in key swing states, including Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, securing Trump’s place as the 47th president of the United States. Trump's focus on rallying support among male voters and marginalized groups also played a crucial role in his victory, reflecting the GOP's evolving campaign strategies to broaden its voter base in highly competitive states.
This development signifies a notable shift in U.S. politics, with Trump returning to office in a country still navigating the social and economic challenges that defined recent election cycles.
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