The United States Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, has delivered her concession speech at Howard University on Wednesday evening, formally acknowledging President-elect Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 US election.
“Earlier today I spoke with President-elect Trump and congratulated him on his victory,” Harris told supporters at her alma mater. “I also told him that we will help him and his team with their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transfer of power,” she said.
Harris, who was hoping to secure the presidency, urged her supporters to accept the election results and expressed her commitment to assisting with a smooth transition.
“Folks are feeling and experiencing a range of emotions right now, I get it. But we must accept the results of this election,” she said, calling for unity and moving forward despite disappointment.
Originally scheduled as the site of her victory rally, Howard University became the venue for Harris’ concession speech after election results showed her loss to Trump. The speech marked the first time Harris had spoken publicly since Trump’s win.
“My heart is full today — full of gratitude for the trust you have placed in me, full of love for our country, and full of resolve,” she said.
Harris acknowledged that the outcome was not what she and her supporters had hoped for, but she reaffirmed her belief in America’s enduring promise.
“The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for. But hear me when I say: The light of America’s promise will always burn bright.”
In her speech, Harris emphasized the need for Democrats to continue their work for the future, vowing to remain committed to the values that fueled her campaign.
“While I concede this election,” she stated, “I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign.”
She ended on a determined note, promising never to give up the fight for the country’s future. “I will never give up a fight for a future where Americans can pursue their dreams, ambitions, and aspirations,” she said. America, she added, “will never give up the fight for our democracy.”
Harris’ concession has set the stage for Trump’s transition to the White House as President-elect, following one of the most closely watched elections in the U.S. history.
