US President Biden announces a peaceful transition of power to Donald Trump after his loss in the 2024 election, marking a pivotal moment in US politics.
United States President Joe Biden will address the nation on Thursday, offering his formal commitment to a peaceful transfer of power to Donald Trump after his Republican rival triumphed in the 2024 presidential election.
Biden, 81, is expected to speak from the White House Rose Garden at 11 a.m. (1600 GMT), where he will acknowledge Trump’s decisive victory over Vice President Kamala Harris and outline the next steps for a smooth transition.
The speech is anticipated to be a solemn moment, reflecting the gravity of the situation and Biden’s commitment to democratic principles.
Biden, who withdrew from the race against Trump in July 2024, passed the Democratic nomination to Harris, who was ultimately defeated in the election.
This loss has significantly impacted Biden’s legacy, especially considering Trump’s surprising resurgence following his earlier defeat in 2020.
Despite the setback, Biden has vowed to ensure the transition proceeds without incident, presenting a sharp contrast to Trump’s refusal to accept his own 2020 defeat, which contributed to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
In a move that signals his desire for unity, Biden spoke with Trump on Wednesday to reaffirm his commitment to a peaceful transition.
The White House confirmed that Biden emphasised the importance of cooperating for the good of the country. Trump responded positively to the call, with his campaign spokesman, Steven Cheung, confirming that the former president “looks forward to the meeting” and appreciated the gesture.
This marks the first conversation between Biden and Trump since their highly anticipated debate in June, which led to Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race.
The exchange of calls and the impending face-to-face meeting signal an effort to move beyond their contentious past.
Trump’s unexpected victory has reshaped the political landscape, both domestically and internationally. Exit polls reveal widespread dissatisfaction with Biden’s handling of key issues, including inflation and economic policy, which contributed to his loss.
In contrast, Trump’s hardline right-wing policies resonated with many voters, ensuring his return to the White House for a second term.
World leaders quickly pledged cooperation with the incoming administration, despite concerns over Trump’s “America First” approach, including his stance on tariffs and international trade.
Trump’s policies are expected to shift dramatically, particularly regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. It’s speculated that Trump could halt military aid to Ukraine, a move that may alter the course of the conflict in Eastern Europe.
Meanwhile, Trump’s environmental policies are set for a dramatic overhaul, with his “drill, baby, drill” stance signalling a return to increased fossil fuel production.
The former president has also expressed his intent to reverse Biden’s climate-focused agenda, a key issue for both domestic and global audiences.
As Trump prepares for his return to the White House, attention is turning to the selection of his new cabinet. Reports indicate that figures such as tech mogul Elon Musk and vaccine sceptic Robert Kennedy Jr. are under consideration for key roles.
Trump’s transition team confirmed that, over the coming weeks, they will work to assemble the “best people” to serve in the new administration.
The president-elect is also expected to follow through on his promises to roll back Biden’s policies, particularly in areas like immigration and energy.
His vow to impose strict immigration controls and prioritise national interests could redefine America’s global posture.
For Biden, the ultimate goal was to ensure that Harris would succeed him in office, preventing Trump’s return to power.
However, many within the Democratic Party now believe that Biden waited too long to make way for his vice president, a move that may have cost Harris the election.
Despite the loss, Biden expressed deep admiration for Harris following her concession speech, praising her leadership and resilience.
As Biden prepares to leave office in January 2025 at the age of 82, Trump, at 78, will break Biden’s record as the oldest sitting president, bringing a new era of leadership to the United States.