Barack Obama Congratulates Donald Trump, Emphasizes Peaceful Transition
Former President Barack Obama extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory Wednesday, underscoring the importance of a peaceful transfer of power.
Obama’s remarks stand in stark contrast to Trump’s past refusal to concede to Joe Biden, which led to a tragic attack on the U.S. Capitol by Trump’s supporters on January 6, 2021.
“This isn’t the outcome we’d hoped for,” Obama shared in a statement. “But living in a democracy means understanding that our views won’t always win, and accepting the peaceful handover of power when they don’t.”
Obama also took a moment to recognize the dedication of Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz, who ultimately lost in the race. He praised them as “two exceptional public servants who ran a remarkable campaign.”