Barack Obama Congratulates Donald Trump after Harris Concedes Defeat
US – Former President Barack Obama extended his congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump after his hard-fought victory in the closely contested 2024 election.
Trump won over Vice President Kamala Harris, who acknowledged her loss and assured a smooth transition of power.
Obama conveyed disappointment with the election outcome, pointing to the nation’s deep-rooted political divides, especially following Trump’s 2020 refusal to concede and the subsequent Capitol incident.
“With the results now in, we extend our congratulations to President Trump and Senator JD Vance on their victory. This isn’t the result we had hoped for. But living in a democracy means accepting that our viewpoint won’t always prevail and respecting the peaceful transfer of power,” he stated.
Obama encourages Trump to focus on unity
He acknowledged the ongoing challenges the nation faces, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic pressures of rising prices, as key issues needing bipartisan attention.
In his remarks, Obama urged elected leaders to prioritize unity and uphold democratic values, stressing these principles as vital to addressing current national struggles and safeguarding the country’s democratic future.
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“We won’t always agree on every issue. However, progress demands that we extend goodwill and respect even to those with whom we strongly disagree. That approach has brought us this far and will continue to help us build a nation that is fairer, more just, equal, and free,” he added.
Obama praised Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, calling them “outstanding public servants who led an exceptional campaign.”
Caleb Amisi’s response to Trump’s victory
In the meantime, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi claimed that President Trump’s victory had minimal impact on his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Amisi, known for his youthful outlook, argued that Republican leaders typically do not support the philosophy of advancing Africa through foreign aid.
He suggested that Trump’s win might influence various ongoing US-funded programs in Kenya, such as the Haiti mission.
Barack Obama Congratulates Donald Trump after Harris Concedes Defeat