Washington: President Donald Trump for the first time conceded on Thursday that Joe Biden will be the next president of the United States. This came a day after his supporters stormed the US Capitol as Congress was certifying Biden’s victory in a stunning assault on American democracy, reported news agency Reuters.
Even after claiming on Thursday morning that election has been stolen from him, Trump said in a video released on Thursday evening that he would focus on a smooth transition to Biden administration.
Condemning Wednesday’s violence, the president said that rioters had defiled the seat of American democracy.
“Serving as your president has been the honor of my lifetime. And to all of my wonderful supporters, I know you are disappointed, but I also want you to know that our incredible journey is only just beginning,” Trump was quoted as saying by Reuters.
The statement was a somersault for the outgoing president, who has for months insisted that he prevailed in the November 3 election due to widespread fraud, without evidence.
Trump’s exhortation on Wednesday to thousands of supporters that to protest that election results they should march to the Capitol. This instigation whipped up a mob that overran police officers and invaded the Capitol building, forcing members of Congress into hiding to ensure safety.
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