Susan Walsh/AP

Kamala Harris conceded the presidential election to Donald Trump Wednesday afternoon in a speech at Howard University. Speaking to a crowd of sometimes tearful supporters, Harris stressed the need to accept Trump’s victory but continue “the fight for our country.” “While I recognize this election, I don’t recognize the fight that fueled this campaign,” she said.

In her concession speech, Vice President Kamala Harris urged her supporters to accept her election loss to President-elect Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/cwr3XjJzwH

– The Associated Press (@AP) November 6, 2024

Harris told the crowd that she had spoken to Trump earlier in the day and pledged to “engage in a peaceful transfer of power” and help the next president’s team in the transition . In her speech, Harris urged her supporters to accept the election result. “A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results,” Harris said. “This principle, like any other, distinguishes democracy from monarchy or tyranny. » She also added: “We owe our loyalty not to any president or party, but to the Constitution of the United States. »

Harris struck an energizing note, emphasizing the need to continue pushing to protect the right to abortion and the right to be free from gun violence. “I will never give up the fight for a future where Americans can pursue their dreams, ambitions and aspirations, where American women have the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies,” she said.

The vice president encouraged her supporters “to organize, mobilize and stay engaged.” “During the campaign, I often said, ‘When we fight, we win,’” she said. “But here’s the problem. Sometimes the fight takes time. That doesn’t mean we won’t win.

“Do not despair,” Harris concluded. “Now is not the time to give up. It’s time to roll up our sleeves.