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Harris voters mourn loss after sobering concession speech: ‘There’s nothing left’
On Wednesday afternoon at Howard University, the atmosphere was marked by a somber calm as supporters awaited Vice President Kamala Harris’s concession speech. Typically bustling with activity, the Yard was largely occupied by campaign staff, media representatives, and concerned citizens.
Harris arrived about 25 minutes later than expected, starting her address with themes of unity, community-building, and coalition formation. “My heart is full today,” she expressed. “Full of heart for my country and full of resolve.”
Highlighting resilience, she declared, “Hear me when I say that the light of America’s promise will always burn bright. As long as we never give up and as long as we keep fighting.”
The Vice President called on young people to recognize their significance and strive for the seemingly unattainable. “At this time, it’s essential that people do not become complacent,” she advised, urging them to commit to ongoing organization and mobilization. Harris encouraged her supporters to embrace a spirit of optimism and service.
Reiterating her message of hope, she stated, “Hear me when I say that the light of America’s promise will always burn bright. As long as we never give up and as long as we keep fighting.”
In other political news, Indonesia’s newly inaugurated leader has recognized the “immense potential” of the nation’s relationship with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who removed a visa ban against him in his first term due to prior allegations of human rights abuses. Prabowo Subianto emphasized his commitment to a neutral foreign policy, which has allowed Indonesia to nurture ties with both the U.S. and China, thus attracting significant investment.
“Indonesia and the United States are strategic partners who enjoy a broad and dynamic relationship,” he wrote on social media platform X. He expressed eagerness to collaborate closely with Trump’s administration to strengthen these ties, promoting global peace and stability.
Subianto, who previously faced U.S. restrictions due to allegations related to the dictatorship of Suharto in the late 90s, was eventually welcomed back during the Trump administration when he served as the country’s defense minister in 2020. Although he has faced accusations of involvement in the abduction of democracy activists, he maintains his innocence.
As he prepares for his inaugural foreign tour starting in China with discussions alongside President Xi Jinping, he hinted at an invitation for an official visit to the United States, though he did not disclose specific plans to meet with either Biden or Trump.
Turning attention to the broader implications of U.S.-China relations, both Trump and Harris had committed to a tougher stance against Beijing. Trump notably escalated this with promises of imposing 60% tariffs on all incoming Chinese goods, a move analysts suggest could impact up to $500 billion in exports.
In response, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his hope for mutual understanding in a message to Trump, emphasizing the need for Beijing and Washington to enhance dialogue and negotiate differences to avoid further confrontation.
Democrat Raul Ruiz re-elected to House
Democratic Representative Raul Ruiz successfully retained his U.S. House seat for California on Wednesday. Ruiz, who first entered Congress in 2012 by defeating Republican incumbent Mary Bono, represents a district that includes Imperial County and portions of Riverside and San Bernardino counties, serving cities such as Indio, Coachella, and Calexico. A physician by training, Ruiz brings medical insights from his experience in the emergency department at Eisenhower Medical Center.
US, China must ‘get along’, Xi tells Trump
Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed a message that China and the United States need to find a way to coexist peacefully, marking a potential pivot in U.S.-China relations following Trump’s election. Xi’s communication emphasized the benefits of cooperation over confrontation, urging both nations to strengthen dialogue.
He asserted that fostering a stable and productive relationship is in the best interest of both countries and aligns with global expectations, which calls for managing differences amicably.
Opening summary
Welcome to the latest updates on the U.S. election coverage. Following his decisive win, President-elect Donald Trump is preparing to appoint officials to assist in implementing policies designed to ensure affordability and security for Americans. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris officially acknowledged her defeat, urging supporters not to lose hope, stating, “While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign.”
Key highlights include:
Trump has secured victories in critical swing states, including Georgia, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, with Nevada and Arizona trending Republican.
The Republican party has gained a Senate majority, enhancing Trump’s ability to advance his legislative agenda and confirm judicial nominations.
The control of the House of Representatives remains uncertain, with several competitive races still pending results.
Joe Biden, who withdrew from the race in July and endorsed Harris, paid tribute to her in a statement following her loss to Trump.
Trump has engaged in discussions with Biden regarding the transition between administrations.
Early analyses indicate that Black women continue to be a reliable Democratic voting bloc, while Harris encountered notable declines in support from Latino voters.
Investigations by special counsel prosecutors are expected to conclude prior to Trump assuming office, as indicated by sources familiar with the situation.
Abortion rights advocates celebrated successes in several states, which resulted in constitutional protections being established.
Trump has received global congratulations, including from leaders such as Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron.
High-profile Democrats including the Obamas and Bernie Sanders have addressed the election’s outcome, reflecting on the significant loss.
Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has retracted social media comments critical of Trump to prevent misinterpretation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise have both announced their re-election campaigns, outlining priorities for the upcoming Republican agenda.
Source
www.theguardian.com