Donald Trump conceded that Joe Biden would become US president this month, putting an end to his unprecedented campaign to overturn the results of November’s election.
The president acknowledged his defeat after coming under intense criticism for inciting a mob attack on Congress on Wednesday as it presided over the certification of the electoral college results.
In a video posted to Twitter on Thursday evening, Mr Trump conceded that Congress had certified the election results and that a new administration would be sworn in on January 20.
“My focus now turns to ensuring a smooth, orderly and seamless transition of power,” said Mr Trump, reading from a teleprompter. “This moment calls for healing and reconciliation.”
Mr Trump said defeating the coronavirus pandemic and “rebuilding the greatest economy on earth” would require a “renewed emphasis on the civic values of patriotism, faith, charity, community and family”.
He added: “Serving as your president has been the honour of my lifetime.”
More to come . . .