WASHINGTON − On Thursday, President Joe Biden pledged to facilitate a peaceful handover of power following Donald Trump’s significant election win, telling his supporters, “losing doesn’t equate to being defeated.”

“Obstacles are part of the journey, but giving up is not an option,” Biden stated in a brief speech from the Rose Garden at the White House. “Everyone faces setbacks, but what truly defines our character – as my dad used to say – is our ability to rise again.”

Just two days after his vice president, Kamala Harris, lost to Trump, Biden made it clear he acknowledges the election results, contrasting Trump’s refusal to accept his 2020 defeat.

“I understand that for many, this is a moment of victory − that’s obvious,” Biden expressed. “For others, it’s a moment of loss. Campaigns showcase different visions. The nation makes its choice, and we respect that. I’ve said often, you can’t claim to love your country only when you come out on top.”

He affirmed: “On January 20, we will witness a peaceful transfer of power in America.”

In 78 days, Trump is set to be inaugurated as the 47th president. Over the last two years, Biden has highlighted the risks a second Trump term poses to American democracy. However, during his address, he did not mention those concerns, instead focusing on reassuring his supporters.

“We faced a defeat in this election,” Biden reflected on the results. “The America of your aspirations is asking you to rise up again. This is the enduring narrative of America for over 240 years. It’s a journey for all, not just for a few. The American spirit perseveres. We’ll be alright, we just need to stay engaged, keep pushing forward, and most importantly, maintain our faith.”

Biden, aged 81, refrained from taking questions after his approximately seven-minute address. Following Trump’s victory, he has faced backlash from some Democrats regarding his initial choice to run for reelection despite age-related concerns, only to withdraw with less than four months remaining before Election Day.

The president urged Americans to “calm down” now that the election is concluded and expressed hope that the upcoming election would settle doubts concerning the integrity of the U.S. electoral system.

“It is honest, fair, transparent, and trustworthy − regardless of who wins or loses,” Biden stated.

In a remarkable political comeback, Trump secured a decisive victory, winning or leading comfortably in all seven battleground states, achieving significant support across the country − particularly among Latino and Black men − and amassing at least 295 electoral votes. That total could rise to 312 if Trump wins Arizona and Nevada, where he currently leads.

Biden praised his administration’s record over the past nearly four years as a “historic presidency,” highlighting significant legislative achievements, including major investments in infrastructure and clean energy.

“Don’t overlook what we’ve achieved together,” Biden remarked. “The impact of our work is being felt by Americans, and much of it will be experienced in the coming days. The legislation we’ve enacted is just starting to take effect.”

During a phone call on Wednesday, Trump accepted Biden’s invitation to meet for a discussion about the transition at the White House soon. In that conversation, Biden congratulated Trump on his win and assured him of a smooth transition.

“I assured him that my administration will cooperate fully with his team to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition. That is what the American people expect,” Biden said.

In contrast, in 2020, Trump propagated false claims of election fraud in an attempt to overturn the election results, culminating in the January 6 Capitol riot by his supporters.

Since his early Wednesday morning remarks from West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump has stayed silent. He also hasn’t posted anything on X or Truth Social since reclaiming the presidency.

Biden had originally aimed for reelection and obtained the Democratic nomination during the primary season. However, following increasing pressure from prominent Democrats, he withdrew from the race shortly after a disappointing debate performance, which allowed Harris to secure the nomination, albeit with only 107 days to prepare for the election.

Unlike the previous election, in 2020, where Trump did not follow the tradition of meeting with Biden, he also skipped Biden’s inauguration and has yet to concede defeat from that election.