Barack And Michelle Obama React To Trump's Victory

Hillary and Bill Clinton also issued a statement, warning Americans what they do next will "make the difference between a nation that moves forward or one that falls back."

Barack and Michelle Obama on Wednesday called on Americans to listen to one another and abide by democratic norms in a statement reacting to Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris in the presidential election.

The former president and first lady began by congratulating the president-elect and his running mate, JD Vance.

“This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for, given our profound disagreements with the Republican ticket on a whole host of issues. 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,” they said.

The Obamas said they were incredibly proud of Vice President Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, lauding their “extraordinary” public service and “remarkable campaign.” They also thanked all the staff and volunteers who supported their efforts.

“As I said on the campaign trail, America has been through a lot over the last few years — from a historic pandemic and price hikes resulting from the pandemic, to rapid change and the feeling a lot of folks have that, no matter how hard they work, treading water is the best they can do,” the statement said.