Vice President Kamala Harris addressed her supporters on Wednesday afternoon at Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she acknowledged her defeat in a recent election.

“When we lose an election, we accept the results,” Harris stated to the audience, making a pointed comparison to former President Donald Trump, who has previously declined to accept election outcomes.

On the same day, Harris reached out to Trump to concede the election, which was notable given the competitive nature of the campaign to lead the country. She emphasized the significance of a peaceful transition of power and the need to be a leader for all Americans, according to a senior aide to Harris.

Opponents of Trump pledged to hold him accountable from day one. Following the announcement of his victory, various activist organizations zeroed in on the new president-elect, who will officially take office on January 20.

The American Civil Liberties Union, known for challenging many of Trump’s policies during his first term, announced plans to take immediate action “the moment he is sworn in.”

Kris Brown, president of the gun-safety organization Brady, expressed concern about Trump’s election but pledged to persist in efforts to combat gun violence: “While we may not have an ally in the White House, we won’t back down.”

Ben Jealous, Executive Director of the Sierra Club, labeled Trump’s first term a “setback for climate action” and committed to legally challenging his harmful policies while applying pressure on financial institutions and corporations to improve their environmental practices.

Advocacy groups will contend with a president whose party could gain significant control in both the House and Senate. Republican candidates made gains in key Senate races, including in West Virginia and Ohio, potentially handing them Senate control again. Although final results for many House races are still pending, Speaker Mike Johnson stated that “early indicators suggest that Republicans will maintain our majority.”

Stay updated with live coverage from the YSL News Network regarding the presidential election and related issues.

Biden Reaches Out to Trump, Extends White House Invitation

On Wednesday, President Joe Biden called President-elect Donald Trump to congratulate him on his election victory and invited him to a meeting at the White House during the transition, which is a gesture Trump did not afford Biden four years prior.

Biden’s initiative isn’t atypical since outgoing presidents generally meet with their successors before the swearing-in ceremony. However, this call comes after Trump’s refusal to invite Biden following the 2020 election and his support of false claims about election fraud.

The White House noted in a statement that “President Biden expressed a commitment to facilitate a smooth transition and highlighted the necessity of unifying the nation.”

Trump’s campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, confirmed the call, stating, “President Trump looks forward to the upcoming meeting and greatly appreciates the call.”

At this time, a date for the meeting between Trump and Biden has not been announced. Biden is expected to address the nation on Thursday regarding the transition process.

– Karissa Waddick

Trump Talks to Zelenskyy Following Election Amid Ukraine Concerns

WASHINGTON – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Wednesday that he had a conversation with President-elect Donald Trump to congratulate him on his overwhelming election victory, as the Ukrainian leader seeks ongoing U.S. support in the fight against Russia.

Zelenskyy shared on X that he had a “great call” with Trump and congratulated him on his “historic win,” emphasizing that “his strong campaign led to this outcome.”

“I acknowledged his family and team for their excellent work,” Zelenskyy continued. “We agreed to maintain open lines of communication and enhance our cooperation. It’s crucial for the U.S. to lead effectively for global stability and a fair peace.”

In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Biden administration has provided substantial military aid over the past two and a half years. However, the outlook for future U.S. assistance may be uncertain following Trump’s election, as he has previously expressed admiration for Putin and was ambiguous about his support for Ukraine during a September debate.

-Joey Garrison

Pelosi: ‘We Wish for America’s Success’

Former House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., issued a statement on Wednesday acknowledging Trump’s victory and reaffirming her commitment to ensure a smooth transition of power.

“We all hope for America’s success with the upcoming Administration,” she stated. “The peaceful transition of power is fundamental to our democracy. After each election, we bear the responsibility to unite and seek common ground.”

– Riley Beggin

Bernie Sanders criticizes Democrats for their defeats

Senator Bernie Sanders, I-VT, criticized the Democratic Party for its losses in the presidential and Senate elections on Tuesday night, arguing that it has strayed from its foundational support for America’s working and lower classes.

“It shouldn’t be shocking that a Democratic Party that has turned its back on working-class people has seen those very people turn away from them,” Sanders, a leading progressive figure in Congress, pointed out. He raised issues like healthcare access, job losses due to automation, and the war in Israel.

This strong criticism comes after Sanders endorsed President Joe Biden, and then Vice President Kamala Harris, as the party’s nominee earlier this year. When Harris revealed her economic plan, Sanders expressed that he was “impressed,” calling it “an excellent beginning.”

In his statement, Sanders did not mention either Harris or Biden, focusing on the party’s overall structure instead.

“Will the wealthy interests and highly-paid consultants who dominate the Democratic Party take any real lessons from this catastrophic campaign?” Sanders questioned. “Do they possess any strategies to confront the increasingly influential oligarchy that holds so much economic and political power? Probably not.”

– Karissa Waddick

Harris: ‘When we lose an election, we accept the outcome’

On Wednesday, Vice President Kamala Harris conceded the 2024 election, reaffirming her commitment to a peaceful transition of power.

“The result isn’t what we had hoped for, worked hard for, or voted for, but the promise of America will always shine brightly, as long as we persist and keep fighting,” said Harris in her concession speech at Howard University, her alma mater, located in Washington, D.C. “The pursuit of a better future for our country is always worthwhile.”

Harris expressed pride in the campaign they ran, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience.

She urged young people to maintain their efforts in creating “a better world,” while vowing to continue advocating for the values she highlighted during her campaign, including abortion rights and gun legislation.

“Although I concede this election, I do not concede the ongoing fight that energized this campaign,” she emphasized. “We will continue to champion this cause at the ballot box, in legal arenas, and in public discourse, as well as through smaller actions in our daily lives by treating each other with kindness and respect.”

“Do not lose hope,” she encouraged. “This is a moment for action.”

As Harris mentioned that the nation might be entering a difficult phase, some audience members responded affirmatively, stating, “We are.”

The announcement of Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election came early Wednesday morning, where he managed to win many pivotal swing states and broaden his appeal among young men, Black men, and Hispanic voters to secure his position.

As supporters began to leave, many younger followers and staff of Harris were visibly emotional, shedding tears as her candidacy came to an end.

— Rebecca Morin and Francesca Chambers

Biden reached out to Trump in phone conversation

Earlier in the day, President Joe Biden called Trump to congratulate him on his success in the 2024 presidential election.

Donald Trump on his recent electoral success. I wish him the best as he takes on the responsibilities of leadership,” Bezos stated.

This marks a pivotal moment in U.S. politics as Trump succeeds in reclaiming the presidency after being ousted only four years ago.

Amidst the ongoing changes, many are eager to see how Trump’s new administration will unfold, especially in terms of selected officials. Speculation is rampant regarding the appointments that will shape his cabinet and policies.

As the transition unfolds, traditional figures from Trump’s previous administration are making headlines, alongside some new faces hoping to influence national policies.

How will the new administration impact policy making?

While the specifics of policy changes remain uncertain, expectations for the incoming administration reflect a commitment to conservative principles. Notably, Project 2025, which outlines strict policy recommendations, will be a point of discussion as Trump begins to finalize his team.

Harris has criticized the project, highlighting its extreme positions, including restrictive measures on abortion and immigration. However, despite the controversial nature of the project, Trump has distanced himself from it—underscoring the complex balance he must achieve with various factions in his party as he advances his agenda.

As the country watches closely, Trump’s plans for America will come into sharper focus, especially with individuals like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. indicating significant changes within health agencies under potential Trump leadership.

– Reporting by various authors

Jeff Bezos extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his remarkable political resurgence and significant electoral success, stating, “No nation has bigger opportunities,” in a post on X on Wednesday. He expressed wishes for Trump to successfully lead and unite the country we all cherish.

This message of goodwill followed a week after Bezos justified the Washington Post’s choice not to endorse any presidential candidates, a decision that deviated from long-standing tradition and prompted resignations from several editorial board members as well as the loss of over 200,000 digital subscriptions, as reported by NPR. The editorial board had initially aimed to support Kamala Harris before Bezos intervened to halt endorsements.

In his opinion piece, Bezos explained that this decision would work towards rebuilding public trust by eliminating what he described as a practice that generates a “perception of non-independence” and bias.

− Chris Cann

Mitch McConnell congratulates Trump, thankful the filibuster is ‘safe’

On Wednesday, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell praised Trump for his presidential election win, expressing to reporters at the Capitol that he recognized the former president for “running a smarter campaign this time.”

As he prepares to step down from his Senate leadership role this month after serving as minority leader since 2021, McConnell mentioned that he “really hoped to pass on the majority to my successor.”

“Although we don’t have all the outcomes yet, we’re optimistic that we will remain in the majority and possibly expand it,” he remarked.

McConnell highlighted that one of the most satisfying aspects of Republican control in the Senate is that the filibuster “will remain intact.”

“There won’t be any new states added for the sake of providing a partisan benefit to the opposite side, and we’ll stop criticizing the Supreme Court every time we disagree with a ruling they make,” he noted. He believes that the transition to a Republican Senate majority will help impose boundaries to prevent those seeking to alter the rules for their own agendas.

− Sudiksha Kochi

Netanyahu and Zelenskyy engage with Trump

On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reported having a “warm and cordial” discussion with President-elect Donald Trump, one of the first world leaders to contact him following his election success. Topics included Israel’s security and “the Iranian threat.”

Trump has had a long-standing rapport with Netanyahu and was viewed during his first term as one of the most pro-Israel U.S. presidents in contemporary history, notably shifting the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, which Palestinians also see as their future capital. It remains uncertain how Trump will handle the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

A multitude of leaders and U.S. allies shared messages of congratulations following Trump’s election victory, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is faced with the possibility of whether Trump’s administration might reduce military support for Ukraine or steer them towards a peace settlement with Russia.

“I value President Trump’s commitment to a ‘peace through strength’ strategy in international relations,” Zelenskyy remarked. “This principle is crucial for bringing about a fair peace in Ukraine.”

− Kim Hjelmgaard

Trump’s remarkable political rebirth

Four years ago, Trump was largely seen as a political outcast. Now, he stands on the brink of becoming president once more. After rising from the ruins of significant scandals, including four criminal indictments, two impeachments, and an attempted insurrection, Trump silenced concerns that he might undermine American democracy and instead showcased the democratic process as his ultimate redemption.

He is set to become the second U.S. president in history to serve nonconsecutive terms, the first being Grover Cleveland more than a century ago.

Once rejected by voters in 2020 and shunned by many within his own party following the January 6, 2021 insurrection, Trump is now poised to reclaim the title of the world’s most powerful individual, entering the role as a convicted felon.

Polls indicated a sharply contested election, but ultimately Trump secured crucial victories by emphasizing inflation and immigration issues. While Harris led in many parts of the West Coast and Northeast, Trump achieved wins in states like North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, surpassing the 270 electoral vote requirement. Discover more about the events that contributed to Trump’s incredible comeback.

− Zac Anderson

What’s next for Trump’s criminal cases?

Experts suggest that Trump’s election win may delay or potentially nullify his four ongoing criminal cases. Trump has signaled that he would obstruct special counsel Jack Smith’s efforts regarding his two federal cases. Additionally, proceedings in two state cases in New York and Georgia could be postponed until his presidential term concludes.

“We are entering uncharted territory,” remarked Alexander Reinert, a professor at Cardozo School of Law, referring to the state cases.

Trump has hinted at the possibility of dismissing Smith or even granting himself a pardon. “It’s so simple – I would fire him in an instant,” Trump told radio host Hugh Hewitt on October 24.

ACLU prepared to take action against Trump’s ‘mass deportation’ initiative

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), known for challenging many of Trump’s contested policies during his prior administration, announced plans to respond to Trump’s next term. The ACLU was the initial organization to contest Trump’s travel ban from predominantly Muslim countries, taking part in 434 legal actions against his first term.

Now, ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero stated that they are ready to combat Trump’s promises of retribution against opponents, to spearhead a “mass deportation” of over 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the U.S., and other commitments he has made.

“We are prepared to respond the moment Trump is inaugurated,” Romero declared. “When President-elect Trump targets immigrants, dissenters, and his political rivals, we will challenge him through the courts, in state legislatures, and on the streets.”

Vance and His Mother Celebrate Election Win

Vice president-elect JD Vance expressed gratitude to his supporters after he and Donald Trump secured an early victory early Wednesday morning. His mother, Beverly Aikins, marked the occasion by returning to Facebook to celebrate her son’s success. Aikins had previously taken a hiatus from social media in July due to the “vitriol and hate” directed at her son, particularly from critics in his hometown of Middletown, where she resides.

“Too big to rig,” she remarked. “A popular vote lead of over five million. Two hundred seventy-seven electoral votes and counting. Trump Vance 2024.”

− Victoria Moorwood, Cincinnati Enquirer

Bomb Threats Tying to Russia Did Not Affect Election, According to Officials

On Tuesday, bomb threats believed to be from Russia disrupted voting across several key battleground states. However, Jen Easterly, the head of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, asserted that these threats did not significantly impact the election or voters’ ability to cast their votes. During a late-night press conference, she stated that there were some “minor” disruptions, including the evacuation of polling places and delays.

Easterly noted that the hoax threats were delivered to at least four states and were classified as “non-credible.”

“Importantly, these incidents did not hinder the ability of voters to vote or have their votes counted,” Easterly explained, praising the resilience demonstrated by election officials across the affected states. “Overall, I would label this a positive development for democracy.”

Eight States Vote to Bar Noncitizen Voting

On Tuesday, eight states passed amendments to their constitutions or put forth ballot measures to prevent noncitizens from voting, aligning with a significant goal of the Republican Party. This move comes despite existing state and federal laws banning noncitizen voting and research indicating that such occurrences are almost nonexistent. The amendments were approved by margins of two to one or greater, often simply adding the word “only” to the stipulation that only citizens can vote.

North Carolina and Wisconsin, both pivotal swing states, also adopted these constitutional changes. The other states were Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Oklahoma, and South Carolina.

“It is against the law for noncitizens to participate in our elections,” stated Michael Whatley, co-chairman of the Republican National Committee, when filing lawsuits to prevent noncitizen voting. “Yet consistently we have observed Democratic officials resisting necessary safeguards and weakening election integrity measures, which unfairly allows noncitizen voting.”

Research from the Brennan Center for Justice and the libertarian Cato Institute has shown that noncitizen voting is virtually nonexistent. A recent audit of Georgia’s voter rolls revealed just 20 noncitizens among 8.2 million registered voters.

Center for American Women and Politics: ‘Progress is Not Guaranteed’

The Center for American Women and Politics suggested that Kamala Harris’ campaign showcased many advantages women have when running for office. She proved to be a strong fundraiser and resonated with voters on significant issues, offering a perspective on often-overlooked topics. However, her campaign also highlighted the barriers that female candidates face, especially the unequal expectations imposed on them, particularly women of color. Despite women holding numerous political positions in America, they still make up less than a third of seats across all levels of government, and the highest office in the land remains unattained by a woman.

“Progress is not a given,” the center stated. “Yes, we have made substantial advances, but there are still many hurdles to overcome.”

Can Trump Run Again in 2028?

Having run for president three times and achieving victory in 2016 and now again in 2024, the question arises: Can Trump run for president again in 2028? The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution restricts any individual from serving more than two terms as president.

Traditionally, presidents served no more than two terms until Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected four times between 1932 and 1944. In 1947, following Roosevelt’s passing, efforts commenced in the House of Representatives to limit presidential terms. The proposal underwent some amendments in the Senate and was ultimately ratified on February 27, 1951.

− Chad Murphy, Cincinnati Enquirer

How Kamala Harris’s Campaign Fell Short

In a recent appearance on ABC’s “The View,” Harris had an opportunity to engage with Americans not familiar with her background. However, when asked about her plans to differ from President Joe Biden, she faltered, stating, “Nothing comes to mind,” highlighting a significant weakness in her campaign that contributed to her defeat against Trump. This lack of distinction from an unpopular president, whose approval ratings have lingered around 40% during his time in office, ultimately hindered her campaign’s message of a “new generation of leadership.”

− Joey Garrison

Which Key States Did Trump Secure on Election Day?

Trump triumphed in the initial swing On election night, North Carolina was declared, along with victories for the former president in Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

The former president also secured wins in various Republican strongholds nationwide on Tuesday, spanning areas from Texas to Montana and South Carolina. He successfully captured several states that were once considered toss-ups but have shifted solidly to the right in recent years, including Ohio and Florida.

Which states did Harris win on Election Day?

Harris achieved victories in strongholds for Democrats across the nation, from California to New York and Illinois. She also easily prevailed in several New England states like Vermont and Massachusetts, along with the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.