Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama have extended an olive branch to President-elect Donald Trump after his decisive victory in the 2024 presidential election.
This message of unity comes despite the Obamas’ active campaigning alongside Vice President Kamala Harris to oppose Trump’s re-election.
In a statement released Wednesday, the former first couple emphasized the need for national unity and respect for democratic principles as Trump prepares for a return to the White House.
“In a country as big and diverse as ours, we won’t always see eye-to-eye on everything. But progress requires us to extend good faith and grace — even to people with whom we deeply disagree,” Obama stated, encouraging reconciliation after an intense election season.
The results reflected Trump’s strength in critical battleground states, including wins in Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, Wisconsin, Nevada, and Pennsylvania.
While Arizona’s results are still pending, Trump’s electoral path to victory has already been solidified. Early Wednesday morning, media outlets such as The Hill and Decision Desk HQ called the race in his favor.
The former president and first lady acknowledged the challenging circumstances that framed the election, from the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to ongoing economic pressures.
“Those conditions have created headwinds for democratic incumbents around the world, and last night showed that America is not immune,” they said in their statement.
Trump’s victory also brings a significant change in leadership, as Ohio Senator JD Vance will now ascend to the vice presidency.
The Obamas addressed this transition, acknowledging their “profound disagreements with the Republican ticket” but also underscoring the importance of respecting electoral outcomes.
“This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for,” the Obamas admitted. “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 went on to commend Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, for leading what they called a “remarkable campaign” despite the hurdles they faced.
Looking ahead, the Obamas urged Americans to uphold the democratic principles that have guided the nation through challenging times.
“The good news is that these problems are solvable — but only if we listen to each other, and only if we abide by the core constitutional principles and democratic norms that made this country great,” they stated.
Trump’s victory marks a notable shift in American politics, with the former president set to return to office after a four-year hiatus. His wins in several key battleground states played a pivotal role in determining the election outcome.
Throughout the campaign, especially on Super Tuesday, Obama used social media to rally support for Harris, urging his followers on X to vote.
“Thanks, everybody, for taking the time to vote,” he posted, adding, “Let’s get it done.”
In another post on Election Day, he responded to a family who voted for Harris, saying, “Thank you for voting and choosing a better future for that little kiddo — and for all our kids.”
One user posted a picture with her daughters, writing, “I voted for a future for these sweet girls,” to which Obama responded, “That’s what it’s all about — thanks for voting!”
As Trump prepares to take office, the Obamas’ call for unity and mutual respect serves as a reminder of the democratic values they hope will continue to guide the country forward.