From the Rose Garden at the White House, President Biden commended Vice President Harris for her campaign efforts while underscoring the importance of a peaceful transfer of power to President-elect Donald Trump.
This address marked Biden’s first public comments following the 2024 election results that favored Trump, which came just one day after Harris acknowledged her defeat. Although he had previously issued a statement lauding Harris as an exceptional partner and dedicated public servant distinguished by integrity and courage, this was his first opportunity to speak directly to the nation.
Biden conveyed to reporters, We respect the decision made by our citizens. He reiterated a sentiment he has shared before: You cannot claim to love your country only in times of victory; nor can you love your neighbor solely when you find common ground. He assured that he would facilitate a smooth transition from his administration to Trump’s.
Regarding the electoral process and its outcomes, Biden stated, “It is honest, fair, transparent, and trustworthy—regardless of winning or losing.” He praised Harris’s character during their four years together in office, saying, “She possesses true character.” He added that both she and her team should take pride in their campaign efforts.
On Wednesday afternoon, Biden and Harris congratulated Trump on his victory. Additionally, he extended an invitation for Trump to visit the White House to initiate transition discussions; however, no specific date was provided.
Biden encouraged Democrats by asserting that the America you envision is beckoning you back—that has been our narrative for 240 years and continues today. This story belongs to all Americans. Reflecting on his presidency’s achievements together with Harris, he remarked: We’ve made positive changes in America. With just 74 days remaining in their term, he urged everyone to maximize each day’s potential.
The Associated Press declared Trump the winner of the presidential race around 5:30 a.m. ET on Wednesday after he secured 276 electoral votes compared to Harris’s 223; however, Trump had already proclaimed victory earlier, at 2:30 a.m. ET, during an election night event in Florida.
In her concession speech at Howard University—her alma mater—Harris expressed disappointment: The outcome isn’t what we desired or fought for. Nevertheless, she affirmed that “the promise of America will always shine brightly as long as we persist.” Echoing this sentiment from the Rose Garden, Biden remarked: “Setbacks are part of life; giving up is not an option.”
In his earlier statement on Wednesday, Biden highlighted how extraordinary circumstances surrounded Harris’s presidential campaign launch after he withdrew just over three months before election day due to pressure within the Democratic Party following his June debate performance.
Despite facing only about 100 days for voter outreach after securing the Democratic nomination within two weeks—compared with Trump’s announcement in November 2022 followed by clinching his party’s nomination by mid-March—Harris demonstrated remarkable resilience.