"While I concede the election, I do not concede the fight," expressed Kamala Harris, as she accepted defeat to Donald Trump in the United States presidential election. Admitting that it was painful to lose, the Democratic leader vowed to never give up in the pursuit of a more just and equitable America. She said, "The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for, but 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."
Kamala Harris' Poignant Speech After Election Disappointment
'Who run the world? Girls!' -- Beyoncé's powerful song blared through the speakers at Kamala Harris' alma mater, Howard University in Washington, where she spoke after the disheartening election result. She said, "I spoke with President-elect Trump and congratulated him on his victory. I also told him that we would engage in a peaceful transfer of power."
“I will never give up a fight for a future where Americans can pursue their dreams ambitions and aspirations…where the women of America have the freedom to make decisions about their own body," Harris expressed, adding that she will continue to fight for "freedom, for opportunity, for fairness, and the dignity of all people. All fight for the ideals at the heart of our nation, the ideals that reflect America at our best."
Harris continued, "America will never give up the fight for our democracy, the rule of law, for equal justice, and for the sacred idea that every one of us, no matter who we are or where we start, has certain fundamental rights and freedoms that must be respected and upheld.” She added, "This is not a time to throw up our hands. This is a time to roll up our sleeves."
She left her young supporters with a lasting message, "You have power. Don't you ever listen when anyone tells you something is impossible because it has never been done before."
"I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time, but for the benefit of us all, I hope that is not the case. America, if it is, let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, billion stars. The light of optimism, of faith, of truth and service," Harris said. "Sometimes the fight takes a while. That doesn’t mean we won’t win. The important thing is don't ever give up."
Harris acknowledged her running mate, Tim Walz, and her husband, Doug Emhoff, for their "faith and support" before the election. She also thanked her team, volunteers, and poll workers, for their service.
As Harris left the stage, Beyoncé's song, 'Freedom', was played, the song which became like an anthem for her brief but impactful Presidential campaign.