Harris ‘will continue the fight’

WASHINGTON (TNND) — Just hours after Vice President Kamala Harris conceded the presidential race, President Joe Biden is speaking out for the first time on the outcome of the 2024 presidential election.

In one Instagram postPresident Biden noted, “What America saw today was the Kamala Harris I know and deeply admire.”

Biden, referenced Harris’ concession speech where she called for a peaceful transfer of power and urged Americans to accept the election results.

“A fundamental principle of democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the outcome,” she said. “That principle, like any other, distinguishes democracy from monarchy or tyranny, and anyone who seeks public trust must respect that. .”

Biden noted that Harris has been a “great partner and public servant,” while noting that her campaign began under extraordinary circumstances.

She stepped up and led a historic campaign that epitomized what is possible when guided by a strong moral compass and a clear vision for a nation that is freer, more just and full of greater opportunity for all Americans.”

The president noted that selecting Harris as his vice president was the first decision he made when he became a presidential candidate in 2020.

“Her story represents the best of the American story. And as she made clear today, I have no doubt she will continue to write that story.”

The White House also shared on Wednesday that Biden had spoken with President-elect Donald Trump after his victory and shared the commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and wanted to bring the country closer together. Biden also called Harris to congratulate her on the campaign.

Later Wednesday, Biden’s chief of staff contacted Trump’s team “to sign the required federal agreements necessary to begin an orderly presidential transition,” a White House official told The Associated Press.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.