Photo: AFP
Donald Trump's overwhelming presidential victory on Wednesday ushered in a new era of uncertainty both in the US and globally, as Kamala Harris delivered a resolute concession speech, pledging to assist in his transition to power. An emotional Vice President Harris addressed tearful supporters in Washington, urging them not to lose hope and to continue fighting despite her defeat. Her commitment to a peaceful transfer of power starkly contrasted with Republican Trump's refusal to concede defeat four years ago against Joe Biden, which culminated in a violent assault by his supporters on the US Capitol.
"While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign," Harris stated in her concise yet impactful speech at Howard University, her alma mater. "I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time," she said, her voice strained as she made her first public comments since Trump's unexpectedly decisive victory. "But for the benefit of us all, I hope that's not the case."
Harris, who had previously denounced Trump as a threat to democracy during her unsuccessful bid to become America's first female president, reportedly called him to offer her congratulations, according to an aide. Trump's historic return to the White House overnight solidified what is expected to be over a decade of US politics dominated by his hardline, disruptive right-wing policies. Despite facing a criminal conviction, two impeachments while in office, and warnings from his former chief of staff that he is a fascist, the 78-year-old secured wider margins than in previous elections.
Exit polls indicated that voters' primary concern remained the economy and inflation, which surged under Biden following the Covid pandemic. Harris had also anticipated a surge in support from women, but CNN exit polls revealed she only had an eight-point advantage among the demographic, nearly half of what Joe Biden achieved four years ago.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
