Former US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle have congratulated Donald Trump on his victory in the 2024 presidential election, despite their profound disagreements with the Republican ticket ¹ ². In a joint statement, Obama acknowledged that the outcome wasn’t what they had hoped for, but emphasized the importance of accepting the peaceful transfer of power in a democracy.
“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.”
The former Democratic president also highlighted the challenges facing America, including the pandemic, price hikes, and rapid change, which have created “headwinds for democratic incumbents around the world.”
“Progress requires us to extend good faith and grace even to people with whom we deeply disagree. That’s how we’ve come this far, and it’s how we’ll keep building a country that is more fair and more just, more equal and more free.”
Notably, Obama had strongly supported Democratic candidate Kamala Harris during the campaign, praising her commitment to standing up for the people. His congratulatory message to Trump comes as a gesture of respect for the democratic process.
The Obamas’ statement serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation in the face of differing opinions, as the US navigates this significant transition in leadership.
