Kamala Harris Concedes to Trump, Urges Supporters to Stay Engaged in Democracy
Harris urged voters to continue their advocacy “in the voting booth, in the courts, and in the public square.” She highlighted that the journey for change “takes time” and reassured her supporters, “It’s going to be OK.”
WASHINGTON—After a decisive electoral loss, Kamala Harris formally conceded the presidential election to Donald Trump on Wednesday, signaling a commitment to upholding democratic processes while encouraging supporters to keep fighting for their vision of America.
In an address at Howard University, her alma mater, Harris expressed disappointment but emphasized resilience. She urged voters to continue their advocacy “in the voting booth, in the courts, and in the public square.” She highlighted that the journey for change “takes time” and reassured her supporters, “It’s going to be OK.”
The former vice president’s concession follows a striking electoral defeat where she trailed Trump in every battleground state, despite her warnings about the impact of his leadership. Trump’s victory marks the first time since Grover Cleveland that a president has lost an election only to be re-elected later. He appeared poised to win the popular vote for the first time, despite his previous impeachments, felony convictions, and efforts to contest the 2020 results.
Harris, who would have been the nation’s first Black female and South Asian president, phoned Trump to congratulate him, emphasizing her commitment to a peaceful transfer of power. The pledge was a marked contrast to Trump’s response after his 2020 defeat, when he encouraged his supporters to challenge the election results, resulting in the Capitol riots.
President Joe Biden endorsed Harris after stepping down from the race earlier in the year and released a statement lauding her efforts. “She will continue to fight for all Americans, with purpose and dedication,” Biden said.
Harris’ campaign saw widespread support within the Democratic Party, though she struggled to distinguish her platform from that of the previous administration. Her campaign chair, Jen O’Malley Dillon, vowed to continue working against the challenges posed by a second Trump term, signaling the beginning of a new phase of advocacy.
Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and several other prominent Democrats attended her concession speech, which left some supporters feeling optimistic about her ongoing role in politics.
