Vice President Kamala Harris has officially called President-Elect Donald Trump to concede the 2024 presidential election, marking the culmination of one of the most closely watched races in recent U.S. history. Harris will address the nation at 4 p.m. Eastern today from Howard University, her alma mater in Washington, D.C., in a concession speech that is expected to highlight themes of unity, democracy, and resilience. President Joe Biden is also expected to reach out to Trump and make a formal address regarding the election results.
NBC News reports that Harris made the call to Trump earlier today, following projections that gave him the electoral votes needed to secure victory. Harris’s concession is in line with the American tradition of transferring power peacefully, a custom dating back to the 19th century. Political historians note that the first official public concession came in 1896, when William Jennings Bryan sent a telegram to William McKinley acknowledging his loss. Since then, concession speeches have become a powerful symbol of democratic values, signaling the nation’s transition of leadership.
A Symbolic Farewell at Howard University
Harris’s decision to deliver her concession speech at Howard University carries significant symbolism. As the first female, Black, and South Asian Vice President, she has consistently emphasized the importance of representation and diversity in American politics. By addressing the nation from Howard, Harris underscores her roots and her connection to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), a point of pride she frequently highlighted throughout her career.
Harris’s concession speech is expected to focus on preserving democratic principles, honoring her supporters, and stressing the importance of continued public service. Insiders say that she is preparing a message of unity, urging Americans to support the incoming administration for the good of the country, regardless of party affiliation. Analysts believe she will draw on her historic vice presidency to encourage young Americans and underrepresented communities to stay engaged in the political process.
Biden to Make a Statement
President Biden, who has worked alongside Harris to shape the administration’s policies over the past four years, is also expected to make a call to Trump and address the nation later today. Biden’s address will likely echo similar themes, emphasizing the significance of a peaceful transition and acknowledging the contributions of the outgoing administration. Biden, a long-time advocate for bipartisanship, is expected to highlight the importance of national unity amid political divides.
A Tradition of Concession Speeches in American Politics
Concession speeches are not mandated by law, but they have become a respected tradition in American politics, reinforcing the peaceful transfer of power. Political scholars often point to the cathartic role these speeches play, allowing candidates and their supporters to come to terms with the election outcome. While some speeches, like Al Gore’s 2000 concession, are remembered for their emotional weight, others stand out for the symbolism woven into them.
In 2016, for example, Hillary Clinton’s concession speech included a symbolic wardrobe choice: a black pantsuit with purple lapels and a purple blouse, signifying bipartisanship by blending the colors of both major political parties (blue and red to make purple). Clinton later wrote in her memoir that the color choice was a call for unity after a divisive election.
Trump’s Reaction and Plans
Trump has expressed gratitude for Harris’s concession call and is expected to make a public statement following her speech. Sources close to the President-Elect suggest he will focus on themes of “renewed American prosperity” and “a strong America First agenda,” underscoring his campaign promises as he prepares to take office.
The Trump administration is preparing for the transition period, setting up a team to handle appointments, policy rollouts, and logistical elements involved in returning to the White House. Vice President-Elect JD Vance has already started working with advisors on key domestic issues, and both Trump and Vance are expected to announce initial policy priorities shortly after the inauguration.
The Road Ahead
With Trump’s return to the White House now official, the nation is preparing for a new chapter. Trump’s policy agenda is anticipated to focus heavily on economic growth, national security, and curbing foreign aid, with the aim of bolstering domestic interests. However, his approach to international alliances, particularly regarding NATO and foreign conflicts, will be closely watched by allies and adversaries alike.
For Harris, this concession marks a dignified end to a hard-fought campaign and her term as Vice President, during which she championed issues like public health, voting rights, and social justice. Her role as the first woman and person of color in the Vice Presidency remains a historic achievement that has inspired millions across the country and will likely continue to influence generations of young Americans.
As the transition moves forward, Harris’s concession stands as a reminder of the enduring commitment to democratic values and the peaceful transfer of power. For the Biden-Harris administration, this moment marks a culmination of their work, leaving an indelible mark on American political history.
