WASHINGTON, Nov 8: U.S. President Joe Biden has urged Americans to “lower the temperature” amid heightened political divisions after Donald Trump’s historic election win.
Speaking from the White House Rose Garden, Biden offered encouragement to Democrats concerned by Vice President Kamala Harris’s unexpected defeat.
“Setbacks are unavoidable. Giving up is unforgivable,” he said, adding, “A defeat does not mean we are defeated.”
Biden Invites Trump
Biden commended the recent election for its transparency, integrity and challenged Trump’s past attempts to question electoral processes.
“I hope we can see each other not as adversaries but as fellow Americans,” Biden stated. In his speech, the President called upon Americans to trust the electoral system as “honest, fair, and transparent.”
In a gesture of bipartisanship, Biden extended an invitation to Trump to visit the White House before his January 20 inauguration, a courtesy Biden himself did not receive in 2020.
Trump’s campaign confirmed that the president-elect would accept. Over the next few weeks, Trump will assemble his administration’s leadership.
Democrats Do Soul Searching
Some Democrats have criticized Biden, suggesting his decision to seek reelection may have contributed to Harris’s loss. Biden withdrew from the race in July, following concerns about his performance in a debate with Trump.
Kamla Harris’ loss has led some Democrats to worry about the public’s support for progressive and socially liberal policies, while others have expressed frustration with party leadership, citing a disconnect with voters facing economic challenges.
Biden made no comments on the criticism of his role or the future of his own legacy, which may now be framed by Trump’s return, despite his goal to “restore the soul of America.”
