"We must accept the results of this election" - Kamala Harris
Agency
07/11/2024
WASHINGTON: After failing in the United States (US) Presidential Election yesterday, Democratic candidate Kamala Harris appeared for the first time to deliver a speech at Howard University, here, on Wednesday.
The atmosphere on the field was very gloomy because the majority of the US Vice President's supporters failed to hide their disappointment.
This is acknowledged by Harris, who is well aware of the feelings of his supporters and the Democratic party following the party's failure in the Presidential Election, yesterday.
In fact, Harris understands the upheaval of a large number of US citizens who are disappointed with the results of the election.
However, Harris said, all parties should accept the fact that the Democrats failed to regain control of the US government and that the Republican representative, Donald Trump, will return to the White House as President.
"I know many are feeling and going through various emotions right now. I understand.
"However, we must accept the results of this election," Harris said in his first speech after losing to his rival, Trump.
In the US Presidential Election, last Tuesday, Harris representing the Democrats obtained the support of 223 seats, while Trump (Republican) was comfortable with victory in 294 seats.
Defeat in this election, insisted Harris, does not mean, he should give up.
"Don't give up. This is not the time to raise your hands in surrender, but the time to roll up your arms," he stressed, referring to the redoubled efforts that need to be made to bring America back to a more proud level.
Harris said, now is the time "to take action, mobilize energy, and stay engaged for freedom, justice and the future we all know we can build together."
At the same time, Harris confirmed that he had spoken to Trump and congratulated him on his victory.
Harris also stated that he told Trump that they would conduct a "peaceful transition" and that he would assist in the process.
"Accepting the decision is a basic principle of democracy," he added.
"In our country, we owe allegiance not to a president or party, but to the Constitution of the United States, allegiance to our conscience, and to God," Harris said.
"My loyalty to all three is the reason why I say, even though I admit defeat in this election, however, I think the struggle that drives this campaign is never over."
Harris said the fight for "freedom, opportunity, justice and dignity of all people" was "a value that reflects America at its best".
The supporters who flooded Howard University paid close attention to Harris' speech, not to be outdone by the large number who raised their cell phones to record his speech.
Harris speaks softly, with a more somber tone than the cheerful fighter persona he displayed during the election campaign.
His supporters cheered and applauded and at one point – loud boos – when Harris announced he had called Donald Trump to concede defeat.
In the same speech, Harris also attracted the attention of the younger generation of supporters by giving them advice.
"It's okay to feel sad and disappointed, but trust me everything will be okay."
Harris added that "sometimes the fight takes time - that doesn't mean we won't win."
"Don't give up," Harris told the audience. "You have power." - Agency
