Former U.S. President Barack Obama expressed disappointment over Donald Trump’s recent electoral win, acknowledging it as an outcome he had hoped to avoid, while underscoring the significance of a peaceful transfer of power in a democracy. Obama’s remarks sharply contrast Trump’s refusal to concede to Joe Biden four years ago, which led to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
In his statement on Wednesday, Obama said, “This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for. But living in a democracy is about recognizing that our point of view won’t always win out and being willing to accept the peaceful transfer of power.”
He also commended Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz, despite their decisive defeat, calling them “extraordinary public servants who ran a remarkable campaign.”
