Chethana Janith, Jadetimes Staff
C. Janith is a Jadetimes news reporter covering science and geopolitics.
Vice President Kamala Harris addressed her supporters with an encouraging message as she conceded the 2024 presidential election, acknowledging the loss while pledging a peaceful transfer of power and a continued commitment to the principles that inspired her campaign.
“Earlier today, I spoke with President-elect Trump and congratulated him on his victory. I assured him that we will assist him and his team in a smooth transition and engage in a peaceful transfer of power,” she said at Howard University in Washington, DC.
In her address, Harris took a step that her opponent four years ago had not: openly accepting the election results.
“A core principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we honor the results. … Our loyalty is owed not to a president or party but to the Constitution, to our conscience, and to our faith. This commitment is why I am here today to say: While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that motivated this campaign,” she said.
One hundred and eight days after launching her campaign, the self-described “joyful warrior” spoke about her defeat with resilience, encouraging the American public to stay united.
“I understand people are feeling a range of emotions right now. I understand. But we must honor the outcome of this election,” she added.
Concluding her remarks, Harris urged her supporters to “roll up our sleeves” and remain committed to the values they hold dear, even in the face of defeat.
On Tuesday evening, Harris gathered with close family and aides at the Naval Observatory, choosing not to attend her campaign’s watch party at Howard University, where thousands of supporters had gathered to await the election results.
She formally conceded the race on Wednesday afternoon, congratulating Trump in a brief call that lasted only a few minutes, according to a source familiar with the exchange.
A senior aide shared that Harris emphasized “the importance of a peaceful transfer of power and the responsibility of being a president for all Americans.”
In a unique turn, Harris will soon find herself tasked with officially certifying her own election loss. As vice president and president of the Senate, she will oversee and announce the results of the Electoral College vote on January 6, 2025, as outlined by the National Archives.
