Kamala Harris is set to formally concede defeat in the presidential election, addressing both her supporters and the nation this afternoon. Earlier today, Harris reached out to congratulate Donald Trump on his electoral victory, marking a significant moment in U.S. politics. Her speech will take place at 4 p.m. ET, concluding her campaign with a final public address.
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Location of Harris’s Concession Speech
Continuing the tradition of post-election courtesy, Harris called Trump to congratulate him on his success. Former President Joe Biden also conveyed his congratulations, emphasizing his dedication to a smooth transition, as stated by the White House. Harris will deliver her concession speech from Howard University in Washington, DC, her alma mater and a location rich in significance for her career. The campus hosted Harris’s initial 2020 campaign launch for the Democratic nomination and later served as a preparation ground for her August debate against Trump.
During election night, crowds gathered at Howard University, initially optimistic. However, as the evening progressed and the chances for a Democratic victory dimmed, the celebratory atmosphere shifted to one of quiet reflection. Harris, who had been scheduled to speak that night, was ultimately absent. Instead, Cedric Richmond, her campaign co-chair, addressed the crowd, sharing words of encouragement while acknowledging the unfolding reality.
Time and Details of Harris’s Address
Harris’s concession speech will be delivered at 4 p.m. ET. According to The New York Times, Harris reached out to Trump earlier today to formally concede. While not legally required, concession calls and speeches have become an established custom in U.S. elections. Harris’s statement continues this tradition of peaceful transition, even as other candidates have historically approached it differently.
Historical Context of Election Concessions
Concession speeches in American elections have varied over the years. In 2016, Hillary Clinton delivered her concession speech the morning after the election, addressing the nation from Manhattan and urging Americans to give Trump “an open mind and a chance to lead.” The 2012 and 2008 elections were called for Barack Obama before midnight on election night. More recently, however, Trump famously refused to concede the 2020 election to Joe Biden, and he has never publicly acknowledged his defeat.
How to Watch Harris’s Concession Speech Live
Major news networks are expected to broadcast Harris’s concession speech live. CBS has confirmed it will stream the event, and CNN is likely to make it available on its YouTube channel for viewers nationwide.
Election Night Statements from Harris
On election night, Harris refrained from public comment once polls closed, only using social media to encourage voters still in line to remain at their polling stations. Although she was expected to address her supporters that night, the announcement of her concession did not occur until this afternoon. Richmond, her campaign co-chair, spoke to the crowd, emphasizing that vote counting was still underway and urging patience until every vote had been tallied. “We still have votes to count. We still have states that have not been called yet,” he stated, while also confirming Harris would not be making a public address that evening.
Trump’s Victory Speech Highlights
Following his victory, Trump delivered a speech alongside his family, close aides, and running mate JD Vance, in Florida. Trump described his win as the “greatest political movement of all time,” promising supporters that his administration would take immediate action to address critical issues. “There’s never been anything like this in this country,” Trump said, underscoring his intent to strengthen national security, improve infrastructure, and achieve a “golden age” for America.
Next Steps
As her final act before the transition, Harris will preside over a joint session of Congress in January to certify the election results officially. Donald Trump is scheduled to be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025.
Harris’s Farewell to the 2024 Election
Kamala Harris’s concession speech from Howard University will mark the conclusion of her campaign and a final call for unity among her supporters. While acknowledging her defeat, Harris’s address will underscore her commitment to a respectful transition and respect for democratic processes, signaling the beginning of a new administration.
