Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Donald Trump on winning the US presidential election, praising him for showing bravery when a gunman tried to assassinate him.
"I would like to congratulate him on his election as president," Putin told the Valdai discussion club in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, adding that Moscow was ready to talk to the Republican president-elect.
Trump said during campaigning that he could bring peace in Ukraine within 24 hours if he was elected, but has given few details on how he would seek to end the biggest land war in Europe since World War Two.
Earlier on Thursday, US President Joe Biden spoke of the “struggle for the soul of America” in an address to the nation on Thursday following Trump’s election victory - as the Democrats begin a post-mortem into Kamala Harris’ defeat.
Mr Biden congratulated Trump and said “a defeat does not mean we’re defeated” and praised the integrity of the American electoral system.
In a concession speech to tearful supporters, Vice President Harris said she was “proud” of her campaign but added: “We must accept the result.”
Anger and soul-searching has taken hold of the Democratic Party and other Republican opponents following Trump’s election win on Wednesday, with some criticising Mr Biden for not exiting the presidential race sooner, and others accusing the party of losing votes by “abandoning” working-class people.
Follow the latest developments below...
Key points
- Kamala Harris tells supporters 'do not despair' after crushing defeat
- Joe Biden expected to address the public later today
- Jimmy Kimmel tears up in monologue about 'terrible' election result as he opens talk show
- Sir Keir Starmer offers 'hearty congratulations' to Trump in first phone call since win
- Trump hails 'magnificent victory' as he claims 'powerful mandate'
- Elon Musk celebrates Trump's predicted election win with bizarre sink picture
- London Democrats feel 'lucky' to live here as Trump claims vote win
Live coverage ends
22:02 , Jacob PhillipsThe Evening Standard’s live coverage of the US election has ended for the day.
You can read the latest stories from the Standard here.
Zelensky unaware of Trump's plan to end Ukraine war quickly
20:35 , Jacob PhillipsPresident Volodymyr Zelensky said he was not aware of any details of Donald Trump's plan to end the Ukraine war quickly and he was convinced a rapid end would entail major concessions for Kyiv.
The Ukrainian leader told a news conference on Thursday at the European Political Community summit in Budapest that he believed Trump wanted to end the war with Russia quickly, but that he had not discussed a plan with him.
"If it's just fast, it means losses for Ukraine. I just don't yet understand how this could be in any other way. Maybe we do not know something, do not see," he said.
"I believe President Trump really wants a quick decision. Wants - it does not mean that it will happen. And I'm (talking) here without any reproach, I am just saying that we are where we are," he told reporters.
'I think we'll speak' Trump says about Putin
20:12 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump has told an American broadcaster that he may speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump told NBC he had not yet spoken Putin, but "I think we’ll speak”.
In a wide ranging interview on Thursday Trump said one of his first priorities would be to make the US border “strong and powerful”.
Asked about the cost of his plan, he said, "It’s not a question of a price tag. It’s not — really, we have no choice. When people have killed and murdered, when drug lords have destroyed countries, and now they’re going to go back to those countries because they’re not staying here. There is no price tag."
Putin 'impressed by Trump's behaviour during assassination attempt'
19:00 , Jacob PhillipsRussian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Donald Trump on winning the US presidential election in a speech and said he thought the Republican was “brave” following an assassination attempt.
He said: “I was impressed by Trump’s behaviour during the assassination attempt.”
Putin added that he had the impression that “Trump was bullied in his first term”.
He also said on Thursday he was ready to speak to Trump, as any ideas on facilitating an end to the Ukraine crisis merited attention.
Angela Rayner builds bridges with JD Vance
18:50 , Jacob PhillipsDeputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner spoke to US Vice President-elect JD Vance as the UK Government scrambled to build ties with Donald Trump’s team.
The senior leftwinger told how she had discussed with the Republican how “we build on the special relationship between our great countries”.
Both the deputies are outspoken, controversial and come from working-class backgrounds.
Ms Rayner is also among the Labour Cabinet ministers who have unleashed verbal tirades against Trump.
Read the full story here.
'Mr Biden make some things shake' says gymnastics legend
17:49 , Jacob PhillipsGymnastics legend and Olympic Champion Simone Biles has posted a message to Joe Biden on her social media following Donald Trump’s election victory.
She posted on X: “Mr Biden, I need you to stand up, straighten your back and make some things shake before your departure xoxo the women in america.”
Mr Biden,
— Simone Biles (@Simone_Biles) November 6, 2024
I need you to stand up, straighten your back and make some things shake before your departure
xoxo the women in america 💙
Putin expected to comment on Trump victory - reports say
17:06Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to make his first public comments on Donald Trump’s return to the White House, according to reports.
The BBC reports that Putin will make the remarks up a mountain above the Black Sea resort city of Sochi.
Yesterday Putin’s spokesman said he was unaware of any plans by Putin to congratulate the Republican.
Biden: 'The America of your dreams is calling for you to get back up'
16:39 , Jacob PhillipsJoe Biden has told supporters that although “people are still hurting, things are changing rapidly”.
He told crowds at the White House: “Together we have changed America for the better. Now we have 74 days to finish the term, our term.
“Let’s make every day count. That is the responsibility we have to the American people.
He pressed on: “Set backs are unavoidable but giving up is unforgivable. We all get down but the measure of our character, as my dad would say, is how quickly we get back up.”
He added: “We lost this battle but the America of your dreams is calling for you to get back up.”
'It has been a historic presidency' says Biden
16:36 , Jacob PhillipsJoe Biden thanked election workers for staffing voting sites and “protecting the very integrity of the election”.
He said: “As they did their duty as citizens I will do my duty as President. I will fulfill my oath, I will honour the constitution.
“On January 20 we will have a peaceful transfer of power here in America.”
Mr Biden then thanked his staff over the past four years.
He continued: “Don’t forget all that we have accomplished. It has been a historic presidency, not because of I am President but because of what we have done, what you have done.
“A presidency of all Americans. Much of the work we have done is already being felt by the American people. The vast majority of it will be felt over the next 10 years.
“We have legislation that we have done that is only just kicking in.”
Harris has 'a backbone like a ramord'
16:31Joe Biden said that he congratulated Donald Trump and promised to work with him to ensure a “peaceful and orderly transition”.
He added that he spoke to Vice President Kamala Harris and said the Democrat ran “an inspiring campaign”.
Mr Biden said: “Everyone got to see something I learnt early on, to expect so much - her character.
“She has a backbone like a ramrod. She has great character, true character.”
He continued: “The struggle for the soul of America since our very founding has always been an ongoing debate. It is still vital today.
“For some people it is a time for victory. For others it is a time of loss.”
He added: “You can not love your country only when you win.”
Joe Biden addresses supporters
16:27 , Jacob PhillipsPresident Joe Biden has begun speaking at the White House.
Mr Biden began by thanking staff and saying hello to his granddaughter.
He said: “For over 200 years America has carried out the greatest experiment - the first self government in the history of the world/”
President Biden due to speak shortly
16:03 , Jacob PhillipsPresident Biden is due to speak shortly at the White House following Donald Trump’s victory in the US election.
Mr Biden spoke to Donald Trump and Kamala Harris following the election.
Ms Harris made a speech conceding the election on Thursday and told supporters they must “accept the results of the election” before adding that there will be a “peaceful transfer of power”.
Which celebrities said they would leave the US if Trump won the election?
15:56 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump’s re-election to the White House has caused shockwaves among Democrats worldwide, with a number of high-profile celebrities among those who have voiced their disbelief.
Before 72 million Americans cast their votes for the convicted felon this week, numerous stars stepped out in support of his rival, Vice President Kamala Harris.
The Democrat hopeful, who missed out on becoming America’s first female president, even invited stars like Beyoncé and Oprah Winfrey to join her on stage during her recent rallies.
Many others even vowed to leave the US should the twice-impeached former leader win the tightly contested election.
Celebrities such as Cher and Barbara Streisand have suggested they would leave if Trump was elected.
Read more about which celebrities could leave the US here.
Kremlin: We remember Trump's words on trying to find peace in Ukraine
15:27 , Lydia Chantler-HicksKremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said Russia's leadership remembers Donald Trump's words about trying to resolve the Ukraine crisis, even if he exaggerated the speed at which he could do it.
"If the new administration is going to look for peace, not for the continuation of the war, it will be better in comparison with the previous one," Mr Peskov told reporters.
Asked about Kamala Harris's warning that Putin would eat Trump for lunch, Mr Peskov said with a chuckle: "Putin does not eat people."
Just over an hour until Biden's rose garden address
14:48 , Lydia Chantler-HicksIn just over an hour, President Joe Biden is scheduled to deliver remarks in what will be his first appearance on camera since Donald Trump's decisive election victory over Kamala Harris.
Mr Biden is expected to deliver the rose garden address at 11am ET on Thursday (4pm in the UK).
The president stayed out of sight for a second day on Wednesday, making congratulatory calls to Democratic legislators who won down-ballot races and to Mr Trump.
He issued a statement shortly after Ms Harris delivered her concession speech on Wednesday, praising her for running an "historic campaign" under "extraordinary circumstances".
Mr Biden also invited Mr Trump for a White House meeting, and the president-elect accepted.
Who could be picked for Trump's top team?
13:46 , Lydia Chantler-HicksFollowing his decisive victory yesterday, Donald Trump is set to assemble the team of politicians he wants to have by his side as he enters the White House in January.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the world's richest man and a prominent Trump donor, has been promised a role in his administration, as has former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Billionaire hedge fund manager John Paulson and investor Scott Bessent are also seen as possible entrants to his administration, while former Trump officials Robert O'Brien and Mike Pompeo could return to office.
Government downplays Foreign Secretary's 'neo-Nazi' comment about Trump
13:10British Chancellor Rachel Reeves sought to play down the impact that Foreign Secretary David Lammy's past criticism of Donald Trump would have on UK-US relations.
Mr Lammy described the president-elect as a "neo-Nazi sympathising sociopath" in 2018.
Ms Reeves pointed out that JD Vance had used "choice words" about Mr Trump himself but was still chosen as his running mate.
The Chancellor told reporters in Manchester: "Well, look, the vice president-elect of the United States has used some choice words about the president-elect in the past, but the point is those comments were in the past.
"The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary met with President-elect Trump just a few weeks ago in New York for dinner.
"They had a really good meeting, a constructive meeting and I have absolutely no doubt we will be able to work constructively with the new US administration under President-elect Donald Trump."
Minister backs UK-US ambassador to stay in post after Trump victory
12:52 , Josh SalisburyA British minister has said the UK's ambassador to the US is "going to be a very important interlocutor" and the Government "want her to keep on doing the job".
Dame Karen Pierce is currently British ambassador to the US, having been appointed in 2020 and navigating Donald Trump's final year of his first presidential term.
Her term is due to end in early 2025, with speculation about her replacement circulating from before the general election.
Dame Karen has lobbied extensively on the UK's support for Ukraine, and travelled with former foreign secretary Lord David Cameron to meet the now President-elect Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate to convince him to back more US aid for Ukraine.
On Mr Trump's re-election, Dame Karen posted to X: "We look forward to deepening our already profound and successful partnership as we deal with the challenges of the 21st century."
Cabinet minister Pat McFadden told Sky News: "At the moment, she is doing an excellent job.
"She's got the full confidence of the British Government, and we want her to keep on doing the job that she's doing.”
Trump victory raises fears of lack of action on climate change
12:43 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump’s victory has caused concerns about a lack of action on climate change ahead of the COP29 climate summit next week.
Trump, who has called climate change a hoax, has said he plans to withdraw the US from the landmark 2015 Paris climate agreement at the start of his second presidency.
Climate negotiators and observers preparing for the COP29 conference from November 11-22 in Baku, Azerbaijan, said Trump’s win reduces the ability of countries to agree a new global targets.
"Pushing for more ambitious climate finance is going to be almost impossible without the U.S. buy-in, which will de-motivate developing countries from taking seriously the climate ambitions of the West," said Elisabetta Cornago, a senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform.
It came as the European climate agency said for the second year in a row, Earth will almost certainly be the hottest it's ever been.
The globe this year reached more than 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming compared to the pre-industrial average, climate agency Copernicus said on Thursday.
Europe urges Trump to support Ukraine
12:02 , Lydia Chantler-HicksEuropean leaders meeting in Budapest today have urged Donald Trump from afar to maintain support for Ukraine and to refrain from unsettling the global order following his victory in the US presidential election.
Trump's win is a major challenge for Europe, opening an era of huge uncertainty at a time when the continent is already grappling for unity and its two biggest powers, Germany - whose government just broke apart - and France, are weakened.
Trump's relationship with European leaders was tense and rocky for much of his first term, and his return to power brings uncertainty over US backing for Ukraine against Russia's invasion, the US commitment to the Nato military alliance, and the prospect of tariffs on exports to the United States.
"I trust the American society," European Council chief Charles Michel said as he and others urged Trump to continue to support Ukraine, as they arrived at a meeting of nearly 50 European leaders in Budapest.
"They know it is in their interest to show firmness when we engage with authoritarian regimes. If the United States were weak with Russia, what would it mean for China?"
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said it was now up to the EU to be united. No EU member state on their own can manage the upcoming challenges, she said.
On Ukraine, she said: "It is in all our interests that the autocrats of this world get a very clear message that is not the right of might, that the rule of law is important."
Trump victory a major blow to hopes for strong deal at Cop29, say climate negotiators
11:38 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump’s election victory has darkened the outlook for a strong deal at the Cop29 global climate summit next week and will heap pressure on Europe and China to lead international progress in curbing global warming, according to climate negotiators.
Trump, who has called climate change a hoax, has said he plans to withdraw the US from the landmark 2015 Paris climate agreement at the start of his second presidency, and his policy advisors have floated removing the US from the underlying UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) ratified by the US Senate in 1992.
Climate negotiators and observers preparing for the COP29 conference - being held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11-22 - say Trump’s win deals a blow to the ability of countries to agree a new global finance target, or increase the pool of countries that should contribute top goals for the summit.
The EU and US had planned to push China and rich Gulf states to start paying into UN climate funds.
"Pushing for more ambitious climate finance is going to be almost impossible without the US buy-in, which will de-motivate developing countries from taking seriously the climate ambitions of the West," said Elisabetta Cornago, a senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform.
Biden expected to give speech around 4pm
11:08 , Lydia Chantler-HicksAs we reported earlier, Joe Biden is expected to give his first public address since Donald Trump’s victory later today.
It’s now believed his speech will take place sometime around 4pm.
We’ll be bringing you all the latest updates from his speech as it happens.
Trump’s victory is bound to have sharp implications for Mr Biden’s legacy, and many disappointed Democrats have already criticised him for not stepping aside from the presidential race sooner to make way for Kamala Harris.
Minister: Trump led ‘fiery’ campaign, but let’s ‘wait to see what he does’ on trade
10:39 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDonald Trump said “a lot of fiery things” in his campaign for the White House, Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden has said this morning as he urged the public to “wait to see what he actually does” amid fears of a trade war.
“In an election, a lot of fiery things are said, and president-elect Trump says a lot of fiery things,” Mr McFadden told Sky News. “The important thing is what he actually does.
“For anyone speculating about what exactly will happen, I would advise let’s wait to see what he actually does, rather than take everything said in a campaign.”
Mr McFadden also defended comments made about Mr Trump by his Cabinet colleagues, as shadow chancellor Mel Stride reiterated the Tories’ call for the Government to apologise to the president-elect.
He said the comments will not “interfere” in the “important alliance” between the UK and US.
“I think a lot of things that have been said over the years, but not just here in the UK, including in the US,” he told Sky News.
Read more here.
How tall is Barron Trump? Public fascination after 18-year-old towers over father at victory speech
10:32 , Lydia Chantler-HicksThere was a lot to focus on as Donald Trump delivered his jubilant - and at times rambling - victory speech in West Palm Beach, Florida, just hours after voting closed in the US yesterday morning.
But many viewers were distracted by the height of Trump’s 18-year-old son Barron, who towered over his parents as he joined them on stage. Today, the topic of his height is still trending on The Standard’s website.
Although Donald Trump is considered to be tall at 6 feet 2 inches, Barron trumps his father at 6 feet 7 inches.
Read more here.
Farage won't be bridge to Trump team, says Cabinet minister
10:17Nigel Farage will not be used as an envoy to build bridges with Donald Trump, a Cabinet minister has made clear, jibing: “Hasn’t he got a job to do in Clacton?”
Reform UK leader Mr Farage, a longtime supporter of the president-elect, has offered to help the UK avoid tariffs that Trump is threatening to impose on imports into America.
Mr Farage, who was praised by Trump who described him as a “friend” at a rally in Pennsylvania on the eve of the US election, has said that he would be “glad to assist” in “bridging the divide that exists between Starmer’s Government and Trump”.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy is among a number of Labour Cabinet ministers who have previously torn into Trump, with Mr Lammy having described him in a tweet in 2018 as a “woman-hating Neo-Nazi sympathising sociopath”.
Asked on ITV’s Good Morning Britain whether the new Labour government would take up Mr Farage’s offer, Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden said: “Hasn’t he got a job working for the people of Clacton that he was recently elected to a few months ago?
“We do have a strong relationship and we want to keep that and that is why the Prime Minister spoke to the president elect last night.
“We have got an excellent ambassador working for us in the United States at the moment.
“We know that being an ally of the United States, standing with the United States, being a friend of the United States is in Britain’s interests and the two of us acting together is in the interest of the world too.”
Read more from The Standard’s Political Editor Nicholas Cecil here.
Vatican's chief diplomat congratulates Trump, wishes him 'great wisdom'
10:02 , Lydia Chantler-HicksThe Roman Catholic Church's highest-ranking diplomat has offered congratulations to Trump and wished him "great wisdom" as he prepares to return to the White House.
"We wish him great wisdom, because this is the main virtue of rulers according to the Bible," said Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State.
"I believe that he must work above all to be president of the entire country, thus overcoming the polarisation which has been felt very, very clearly in this time," Parolin said on the sidelines of an event in Rome.
The cardinal's comments are the first public remarks from a Vatican official about Trump's comeback victory. Pope Francis, leader of the Catholic Church since March 2013, has previously criticised Trump's policies.
In September, the pontiff said Trump's plan to crack down on illegal immigration and deport millions of immigrants already in the US was "against life". He also criticised Kamala Harris’ pro-abortion stance. In 2016, Francis said Trump was "not Christian" in his views about migrants.
Democrats call for 'cleaning of the house' so 'new generation of leaders' can emerge
09:56 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDemocrats are continuing their post-mortem following Kamala Harris’ defeat.
Democrat US representative for California Ro Khanna has said: "I think there needs to be a cleaning of the house, there needs to be a new generation of leaders that emerge.
"There needs to be new thinking, new ideas and a new direction. And, you know, the establishment produced a disaster."
Prosecutors 'consider winding down cases against Trump'
09:12Prosecutors are reportedly considering winding down the outstanding federal cases against Donald Trump before he takes office.
Special counsel Jack Smith is evaluating how to wind down the two cases in light of longstanding Justice Department policy that says sitting presidents cannot be prosecuted, a person familiar with the matter has said.
Mr Smith charged Trump last year with plotting to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and illegally hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
By moving to wind down the cases before Trump’s inauguration in January, Mr Smith and the Justice Department would be averting a potential showdown with Trump, who said as recently as last month that he would fire Mr Smith "within two seconds" of taking office.
Mr Smith's two cases charge Trump in a conspiracy to undo the election results in the run-up to the Capitol riot, and with retaining top secret records at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and obstructing FBI efforts to recover them.
In New York, meanwhile, Trump could seek to leverage his newfound status as president-elect in an effort to set aside or expunge his felony conviction and stave off a potential prison sentence.
Trump has been fighting for months to overturn the May 30 verdict, which involves a $130,000 hush money payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election. It is the only one of his criminal cases to go to trial.
Trump to meet Biden at the White House
08:15 , Lydia Chantler-HicksPresident Joe Biden has called Trump to congratulate him on his election victory and to invite him to the White House to discuss the transition of power.
The White House said staff would coordinate a date "in the near future."
"President Trump looks forward to the meeting, which will take place shortly, and very much appreciated the call," said Trump campaign communications director Steven Cheung.
Meanwhile, Mr Biden plans to address the nation on the election results - which will have sharp implications for his legacy - later today.
'Goodbye, America' says Philip Pullman following Trump win
08:13 , Lydia Chantler-HicksAs the news of Donald Trump’s presidential win sinks in around the world, famous names across film, TV, music and science have been sharing their reactions on social media.
Sir Philip Pullman, the English author acclaimed for fantasy trilogy His Dark Materials, did not mince his words as he shared a simple message on X, writing: “Goodbye, America. It was nice knowing you.”
Goodbye, America. It was nice knowing you.
— Philip Pullman (@PhilipPullman) November 6, 2024
To see how other famous figures and celebrities have reacted, click here.
Harris vows she will 'never give up fight to make world a better place'
08:04 , Lydia Chantler-HicksKamala Harris broke her Election Day silence with an emotional concession speech at Howard University last night.
The Vice President and Democrat candidate conceded defeat, while saying she will “never give up the fight to make the world a better place”.
“My heart is full today,” she said. “Full of gratitude for the trust you have placed in me, full of love for our country, and full of resolve.”
She said she is "so proud" of the race she ran, acknowledging Trump's victory is "not the outcome we wanted", but adding: "We must accept the results of this election."
"I told him [Trump] we will help him and his team," she said. "We will engage in a peaceful transfer of power."
Addressing millions of disappointed Democrat voters - some of whom were tearful as they watched her speech - she said: "The light of America's promise will always burn bright as long as we never give up, and as long as we keep fighting.
“I know many people fear we are entering a dark time. Let us fill the sky with the light of a billion stars of faith, truth, and service.
"In our nation, we owe loyalty not to a president or a party but to the Constitution of the United States and loyalty to our conscience and our God.
"My loyalty to all three is why I say, while I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fuelled this campaign."
Read more here.
Trump victory 'no great surprise' as Democrats 'abandoned' working-class voters, says Bernie Sanders
07:42Veteran Senator Bernie Sanders has said Trump’s victory “should come as no great surprise” as he accused the party of “abandoning” working-class people.
The Vermont independent and former Democratic primary candidate had warned Harris before Election Day that she was focusing too much on flipping Republican votes and not enough on pocketbook issues. He has now issued a statement excoriating party leadership.
"It should come as no great surprise that a Democratic Party which has abandoned working class people would find that the working class has abandoned them," he said.
"First, it was the white working class, and now it is Latino and Black workers as well. While the Democratic leadership defends the status quo, the American people are angry and want change. And they're right."
Jimmy Kimmel tears up during monologue about Trump's 'terrible' election win
07:18 , Lydia Chantler-HicksJimmy Kimmel struggled to hold back his tears during the opening monologue on his US talk show, describing Trump’s election victory as a “terrible night”.
The comedian led US late-night chat show hosts offering their reaction, with Stephen Colbert also noting the “deep shock and sense of loss is enormous” and Seth Meyers calling Mr Trump a “bad person”.
Kimmel kicked off his monologue on Jimmy Kimmel Live! kicked by noting that the choice for US president came down to a prosecutor and a criminal, “and we chose the criminal”.
Growing emotional, he continued: “It was a terrible night for women, for children, for the hundreds of thousands of hard-working immigrants who make this country go, for health care, for our climate, for science, for journalism, for justice, for free speech.
“It was a terrible night for poor people, for the middle class, for seniors who rely on social security, for our allies in Ukraine, for Nato, for the truth, and democracy and decency.
“And it was a terrible night for everyone who voted against him. And guess what? It was a bad night for everyone who voted for him too, you just don’t realise it yet.”
Read more here.
Democrat Governor says Trump's victory 'a real wake-up call' for party
07:13Governor of Connecticut Ned Lamont has described Trump’s victory as “a real wake-up call” for his own party, as he said they had lost the vote of working families and “males of different race, colour, and creed”.
“I think the election yesterday was a real wake-up call for the Democrats,” the Democratic politician told a press conference. “I mean, it was overwhelming.
“And we can point to Trump’s personality, whatever you want to say...but Democrats lost a lot of working families. We lost a lot of males.
“We lost males of different race, colour, and creed, and it ought to be a wake-up call that we gotta be fighting for the middle-class and fighting for them every day, and I think they feel like we lost sight of that.”
Starmer offers ‘hearty congratulations’ to Trump in first phone call since win
06:59 , Lydia Chantler-HicksSeveral big moments came late last night, including Sir Keir Starmer holding his first phone call since Trump’s election victory.
The Prime Minister is seeking to secure close ties with Trump amid tensions over Labour activists campaigning for his rival Kamala Harris, and past comments Cabinet ministers have made about him.
Sir Keir last night congratulated Trump on his “historic victory”, Downing Street said.
“The Prime Minister offered his hearty congratulations and said he looked forward to working closely with President-elect Trump across all areas of the special relationship,” said a No10 spokesperson.
Sir Keir and Trump agreed that the US-UK relationship, from defence and security to growth and prosperity, was “incredibly strong” and “would continue to thrive for many years to come”, they added.
“The leaders fondly recalled their meeting in September and President-elect Trump’s close connections and affinity to the United Kingdom, and looked forward to working with one another.”
Read more here.
Good morning
06:09The Standard is resuming its coverage of the US Election following Donald Trump’s sweeping victory over Kamala Harris in Tuesday’s vote.
We’ll keep you informed of all the major developments throughout the day.
Live coverage resumes tomorrow
Wednesday 6 November 2024 22:30 , Jacob PhillipsThe Standard’s live coverage of the US Election has been paused.
Our live coverage will resume on Thursday morning. You can read the latest US politics news from the Standard here.
Obamas congratulate Trump and Vance on their White House win
Wednesday 6 November 2024 22:24 , Jacob PhillipsFormer President Barack Obama, along with former First Lady Michelle Obama, said the election’s result “is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for” but noted that “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.”
Congratulating Trump and Vance, the Obamas expressed pride for Harris and Walz, for both of whom they campaigned, calling them “two extraordinary public servants who ran a remarkable campaign.”
The Obamas cast forward with hope for a divided America, saying that the nation’s problems are solvable “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.”
'I know many people feel we are entering dark times' admits Harris
Wednesday 6 November 2024 21:42 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris closed her speech in Washington by saying “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars”.
She told her supporters: “I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time but for the benefit of us all I hope that is not the case.
“America if it is let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, billion of stars.
“The light of optimism, of faith, of truth, and service.”
'We will never give up the fight for our democracy' Harris continues
Wednesday 6 November 2024 21:38 , Jacob PhillipsVice President Kamala Harris has called on Americans to “look into the face of a stranger and see a neighbour” as she conceded the election.
Ms Harris told crowds: “I will never give up the fight for a future where Americans can pursue their dreams, ambitions and aspirations.
“Where the woman of America have the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies and not have their government telling them what to do.
“We will never give up the fight to protect our schools and our streets from gun violence.
“America we will never give up the fight for our democracy.”
'We must accept the result of this election' - Harris
Wednesday 6 November 2024 21:34 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has told crowds that “we must accept the result of this election”.
She told supporters: “Earlier today I spoke to President-Elect Trump and congratulated him on his election victory.
“I also told him that we will help him and his team with their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transfer of power.
“A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election we accept the result.”
She added: “At the same time in our nation we owe loyalty not to a president or a party but to the constitution of the United States.”
The Vice President continued: “While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign.”
Kamala Harris takes to the stage
Wednesday 6 November 2024 21:28 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has taken to the stage at Howard University, smiling and waving to her supporters.
She told crowds: “My heart is full today, full of gratitude for the trust you have placed in me, for the love for our country and full of resolve.
“The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we thought for, not what we voted for. But hear me when I say the light of America’s promise will always burn bright.
“As long as we never give up and as long as we keep fighting.”
The Vice President then sent her love to her family and thanked Joe Biden and his wife for their “faith and support”.
Prime Minister congratulates Trump on 'historic victory'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 21:14 , Jacob PhillipsSir Keir Starmer has spoken to Donald Trump and congratulated him on his “history victory” on Wednesday evening, a Downing Street spokeswoman said.
She explained: “The Prime Minister offered his hearty congratulations and said he looked forward to working closely with President-elect Trump across all areas of the special relationship.
“From defence and security to growth and prosperity, the relationship between the UK and US was incredibly strong and would continue to thrive for many years to come, the leaders agreed.
“The Prime Minister also reflected on the situation in the Middle East and underscored the importance of regional stability.
“The leaders fondly recalled their meeting in September, and President-elect Trump’s close connections and affinity to the United Kingdom and looked forward to working with one another.”
Harris to speak imminently
Wednesday 6 November 2024 21:07 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has left the vice president’s residence and is travelling to Howard University, her alma mater, to publicly concede the election to President-elect Trump.
Harris has already spoken to Trump by telephone to congratulate him on winning, according to one of the VP’s aides. Trump’s team has confirmed the conversation.
Second gentleman Doug Emhoff will join Harris at Howard.
Kamala Harris to speak to the public shortly after conceding to Donald Trump
Wednesday 6 November 2024 20:44 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris is expected to deliver a concession speech shortly having recently spoken to Donald Trump.
The Vice President chose not to address supporters on election night but will deliver a speech at around 4pm ET, that is 9pm here in London.
Ms Harris earlier spoke to Trump and urged him to be a President for “all Americans”.
Criminal cases against Trump could be wound down due to longstanding rules
Wednesday 6 November 2024 20:29 , Jacob PhillipsThe Justice Department in the US is evaluating how to wind down criminal cases against Trump to comply with longstanding rules that presidents cannot be prosecuted.
Special counsel Jack Smith charged Trump last year with plotting to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and illegally hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
But, officials believe that Trump's victory could mean he can no longer face prosecution following decades-old rules meant to shield presidents from criminal charges while in office.
Veteran Democrat advisor says 'we dug out of a deep hole but not enough'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 20:15 , Jacob PhillipsA top Democrat aid who advised President Barack Obama and Kamala Harris has described Trump’s victory as a “devastating loss”.
David Plouffe wrote on Wednesday that the Democratic operation “left it all on the field for their county” but eventually it was not enough against Trump.
“We dug out of a deep hole but not enough,” Mr Plouffe wrote. “A devastating loss. Thanks for being in the arena, all of you.”
Plouffe’s comments come at a time when some Democrats are starting to blame President Biden for not stepping away earlier, constraining Harris to a truncated campaign.
German government's future unclear as Scholz sacks his finance minister
Wednesday 6 November 2024 20:06 , Jacob PhillipsAway from the US another election that could have big implications on the UK may be on the horizon.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz sacked his Finance Minister Christian Lindner on Wednesday after weeks of wrangling over the economic direction of the government, sources told Reuters.
Newspaper Bild had earlier reported that Lindner had recommended early elections as a solution to the budget impasse, a proposal Scholz had rejected.
It was unclear if Lindner's dismissal would lead also to the departure of the Free Democrats (FDP) from the coalition.
Without the FDP, Scholz could continue to head a minority government, either alone with his Social Democrats or with the Greens, the second largest party, relying on cobbled together ad hoc parliamentary majorities
Biden calls Trump and invites him to the White House
Wednesday 6 November 2024 19:45 , Jacob PhillipsJoe Biden has called President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his election win.
The President, who beat Trump in 2020, has invited him to the White House for a transition meeting.
Originally Mr Biden was the Democrat candidate at the 2024 election but he was replaced by Vice President Kamala Harris following a car crash debate against Trump early in the campaign.
What does Trump's victory mean for the City of London?
Wednesday 6 November 2024 19:31 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has conceded the 2024 election and spoken to Donald Trump.
But what does the result mean for the City and London’s economy on the other side of the pond?
Ebullient financial markets were in a Georgia state of mind through the dark early morning hours as they reacted to the results from the seismic US Presidential and Congressional elections hitting their trading screens.
The moment the Deep South state was projected for Trump, at around 5.30am London time, set dealing rooms all over the world alight.
Until that crucial moment, investors had remained cautious, expecting a close and possibly undecided race between the two candidates and the dollar had little movement against other currencies.
Read our deep dive into what the election means for the City of London and the financial markets in the UK here.
Breaking: Kamala Harris concedes 2024 election
Wednesday 6 November 2024 18:48 , Daniel KeaneKamala Harris has conceded the 2024 election in a phone call with Donald Trump, a source has told NBC.
The Vice President is said to have congratulated her Republican rival and urged him to be a President for “all Americans”.
"She discussed the importance of a peaceful transfer of power and being a president for all Americans," an aide of Ms Harris said.
US election - key dates to look out for
Wednesday 6 November 2024 18:32 , Daniel Keane- November 26: Donald Trump will be sentenced in a Manhattan hush money case where he was found guilty of falsifying documents to cover up a payment to silence a porn star. Trump has denied wrongdoing.
- December 17: Electors, will meet in their respective states and the District of Columbia to select the president and vice president
- January 6, 2025: Vice President Harris presides over the Electoral College vote count at a joint session of Congress, announces the results and declares who has been elected
Trump wins battleground state of Michigan
Wednesday 6 November 2024 18:05 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump has picked up another battleground state, winning Michigan to complete a sweep of the “Blue Wall” states in the Upper Midwest around the Great Lakes.
The race came down to the final results from Wayne County, where Harris wasn’t able to match Biden’s 2020 winning margin in the Democratic-dominated county that’s home to Detroit.
Nikki Haley calls Trump’s win ‘a great moment for democracy’
Wednesday 6 November 2024 18:01 , Jacob PhillipsFormer Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, who became one of Trump’s more vocal challengers in the 2024 Republican primary before eventually endorsing him, said on her radio show Wednesday that he “defied gravity” with his win.
“He got through two assassination attempts. He got through two impeachments, he got through numerous indictments, and America still elected him because, at the end of the day, they knew what they were getting with Donald Trump. And that’s what they wanted to see,” she said.
Haley called it “a great moment for democracy.”
France's Macron had a "very good exchange" with Donald Trump, says Elysee
Wednesday 6 November 2024 17:56 , Jacob PhillipsFrench President Emmanuel Macron had a "very good exchange" with Donald Trump, who secured the U.S. presidency four years after being voted out of the White House, on Wednesday evening, said the French presidential palace Elysee.
"The two leaders talked about Ukraine and the Middle East," the Elysee said.
Netanyahu discusses 'Iranian threat' with Trump
Wednesday 6 November 2024 17:50 , Jacob PhillipsIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoke with Donald Trump to congratulate him, and they discussed "the Iranian threat" and the need to work together for Israel's security, Netanyahu's office said.
The conversation was “warm and cordial” according to the Israeli Prime Minister’s team.
Meanwhile, Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, called for an end to the "blind support" for Israel from the United States.
'It's a war on women' - Billie Eilish
Wednesday 6 November 2024 17:18 , Jacob PhillipsUS superstar Billie Eilish seems to have reacted to the US election result on her Instagram story.
The Bad Guy singer posted a blank picture on Instagram with the phrase “It’s a war on women” - appearing to respond to Donald Trump’s victory.
What are Trump's key policies?
Wednesday 6 November 2024 17:10 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump will be returning to the White House for a second term as president of the United States, after securing a triumphant victory against Vice President Kamala Harris.
But what can we expect from the convicted felon? From policies on immigration, the climate crisis, foreign wars and tariffs, the impact will be felt in all aspects of American life and across the globe.
While some of his proposals would require congressional approval, many wouldn’t.
You can read a summary of the key policies Trump has said he would pursue during his second term in office here.
Trump closing in on 'trifecta' after nearly securing House of Representatives
Wednesday 6 November 2024 16:59 , Jacob PhillipsThe Republicans are just 19 votes away from winning the House of Representatives.
So far Donald Trump's party have won the presidential election and secured a majority in the Senate.
The lower chamber previously had a Republican majority, but the Democrats were hoping to flip several key seats.
Winning all three of the House, Senate and presidency is known as the "trifecta" and would hand Mr Trump sweeping powers to pass legislation and enact policy.
'I'm trying to stay optimistic for the country that I come from' - US Londoner says
Wednesday 6 November 2024 16:22 , Jacob PhillipsAmerican Londoners have been reacting to the news that Donald Trump is returning to the White House.
One American told AP: “I’m struggling a little bit with some of that but I’m trying to stay optimistic about what the process will look like for the country that I come from.
“For me it’s a tough day. It’s not my first choice for sure.”
Another American citizen speaking in London added: “Would I have liked to have seen a Harris government? I think a lot of people would have done.
“But maybe Trump coming in forces people to be a bit more realistic about what they need to do to look after their own interests rather than looking for a benign US government.”
Former president George W. Bush has congratulated Trump
Wednesday 6 November 2024 16:08 , Jacob PhillipsIn a statement, former President George W. Bush said he and his wife, Laura, “join our fellow citizens in praying for the success of our new leaders at all levels of government.”
Some top former Republican officials, including Bush’s vice president, Dick Cheney, had endorsed Harris. But Bush remained neutral.
Bush also thanked “President Biden and Vice President Harris for their service to our country.”
“The strong turnout in this election is a sign of the health of our republic and the strength of our democratic institutions,” said Bush, who called the election a “free, fair, safe, and secure election.”
STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH ON THE 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION:
— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) November 6, 2024
CRAWFORD, TEXAS — I congratulate President Trump on his election as 47th President of the United States of America, as well as Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and their families.
I also thank President…
Harris expected to make a speech at around 9pm, sources say
Wednesday 6 November 2024 16:01 , Jacob PhillipsSpeculation has been building around when Kamala Harris may concede the election.
The Vice President chose not to address her supporters on election night but sources say she will deliver a concession speech at 4pm ET (9pm GMT).
Jeff Bezos congratulates Donald Trump on election victory
Wednesday 6 November 2024 15:48 , John DunneAmazon founderJeff Bezos congratulates Donald Trump on election victory, in a social media post.
Bezos is one of the world’s richest men alongside Elon Musk who backed Trump’s campaign.
Big congratulations to our 45th and now 47th President on an extraordinary political comeback and decisive victory. No nation has bigger opportunities. Wishing @realDonaldTrump all success in leading and uniting the America we all love.
— Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) November 6, 2024
Vladimir Putin 'has no immediate plans' to congratulate Donald Trump on his election victory
Wednesday 6 November 2024 15:34 , John DunneThe Kremlin has said there are no plans for President Vladimir Putin to congratulate Donald Trump on his election victory.
Trump has previously suggested he had a good relationship with Putin in the past.
"I'm not aware of any plans [for President Putin] to congratulate Trump," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
"Don't forget that [America] is an 'unfriendly country' which is directly and indirectly involved in a war against our state."
Kamala Harris expected to address supporters following election defeat
Wednesday 6 November 2024 14:59 , John DunneKamala Harris is expected to address her supporters in the coming hours after her defeat by Donald Trump.
Vice President Harris is expected to address her supporters and the nation this afternoon from Howard University. @MSNBC
— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) November 6, 2024
JD Vance thanks supporters as he prepares for office with Donald Trump
Wednesday 6 November 2024 14:54 , John DunneVice president elect JD Vance has thanked his supporters and family in a post on social media.
THANK YOU!
— JD Vance (@JDVance) November 6, 2024
To my beautiful wife for making it possible to do this.
To President Donald J. Trump, for giving me such an opportunity to serve our country at this level.
And to the American people, for their trust. I will never stop fighting for ALL of you.
Mexico President says Trump win 'no cause for concern' despite pledge to build wall between countries
Wednesday 6 November 2024 14:46 , John DunneMexico President Claudia Sheinbaum says Trump's victory is "no cause for concern" for her country despite Donald Trump’s pledge to build a wall between the two countries to crack down on illegal immigration.
She said: "We are a free, independent, sovereign country and there will be good relations with the United States.”
Trump has promised to finish the wall he promised in his last term of office.
He has also threatened to put high tariffs on the country if it does not stop immigrants from illegally crossing into the US.
Trump's plan for second term
Wednesday 6 November 2024 14:18 , Tom DavidsonDonald Trump has promised sweeping action in a second administration.
The former president and now president-elect often skipped over details but through more than a year of policy pronouncements and written statements outlined a wide-ranging agenda that blends traditional conservative approaches to taxes, regulation and cultural issues with a more populist bent on trade and a shift in America’s international role.
Trump’s agenda also would scale back federal government efforts on civil rights and expand presidential powers.
How will Trump's win impact the London property market?
Wednesday 6 November 2024 14:03 , Lydia Chantler-HicksLondon's high-end estate agents have been busy overnight with enquiries from anti-Trump Americans keen to rent trophy homes in the capital’s most prestigious streets.
"My team have been up most of the night fielding enquiries from many of the US cities that we work with, including New York and Los Angeles," says Becky Fatemi of Sotheby's International Realty.
“The most immediate requests are for rentals. They want wide-fronted townhouses in Notting Hill or large lateral apartments in buildings with a porter, such as the Peninsula. We expect to see this demand continue," she adds.
Longer term, a Trump victory could also pump up the deflated central London sales market as wealthy Democrats look to relocate to the UK.
James Gow, head of London residential sales for Strutt & Parker, believes the activity will bleed over into the sales sector in what is known as Prime Central London (PCL), and boost this micro-market – which is small in footprint but large in value for the UK economy.
"Trump is such a polarising figure that there will be some wealthy Americans who will just think, 'I do not agree with his rhetoric and I just cannot be a part of it,'" he says.
Read more here.
Trump's return will empower right-wing movements across the globe, says Brazil's Bolsonaro
Wednesday 6 November 2024 13:54 , Lydia Chantler-HicksBrazil’s far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro has said Trump’s imminent return to the White House marks “the triumph of the people’s will over the arrogant designs of an elite who disdain our values, beliefs, and traditions.”
He said on X that Trump’s “historic” victory would empower right-wing and conservative movements across the globe, and he hoped it would inspire Brazil to “follow the same path.”
- Today, we witness the resurgence of a true warrior. A man who, even after facing a brutal electoral process in 2020 and an unjustifiable judicial persecution, has risen again, as few in history have managed to do.
— Jair M. Bolsonaro (@jairbolsonaro) November 6, 2024
- Against all oposition from globalists and the deep state,…
Bolsonaro lost his reelection bid in late 2022 and a little over two months later, his supporters stormed the capital in a bid to restore him to power. It was widely seen as an echo of the US Capitol insurrection two years earlier, and Bolsonaro is now the target of several investigations.
Downing Street refuses to be drawn on whether Starmer is concerned about making trade negotiations with Trump-led US
Wednesday 6 November 2024 13:40 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDowning Street refused to be drawn on "future policy discussions" when asked whether Sir Keir Starmer is concerned about the prospect of future trade agreements with the US following Donald Trump's victory.
Asked whether the Prime Minister was worried about Mr Trump's stated desire to place tariffs on goods from China and elsewhere, his spokesman said: "We look forward to working with President-elect Trump including on a wide range of his policy priorities to improve the UK-US trading relations and to support the significant investment relationship that supports millions of jobs across our two countries.
"I'm not going to get into future policy discussions."
Starmer seeks ‘strong, special relationship’ with US after Trump election win
Wednesday 6 November 2024 13:02 , Tom DavidsonThe UK will work with Donald Trump on economic and security issues, Sir Keir Starmer said as he insisted the “special relationship” will prosper with the new president-elect.
The Prime Minister congratulated Mr Trump on a “historic election victory” after American voters returned him to the White House.
Sir Keir was among the first world leaders to congratulate Mr Trump as the Government sought to build bridges with the president-elect after the Republican politician’s campaign filed a legal complaint about Labour activists supporting rival Kamala Harris.
Husband of Harris's campaign manager weighs in
Wednesday 6 November 2024 12:43 , Tom DavidsonThe Democratic Party faces a reckoning with itself - and a battle with a triumphant Trump-led Republican Party that enjoys a majority in the House, the Senate and a favourable Supreme Court.
I believed. I truly did. I am as immensely proud of @jomalleydillon as ever, today and always, and nothing can shake that. My family gave everything we could to stop this, perhaps more than it should. Many of you will be sure how to have done it better, and some more cruel about…
— Patrick Dillon (@mpdillon) November 6, 2024
No sign of Kamala Harris
Wednesday 6 November 2024 12:37 , Tom DavidsonWith Donald Trump having eclipsed 270 electoral votes, there is now no hope for Kamala Harris or her campaign.
The Vice President, who will now have two thankless more months in that role, is yet to give a concession speech. Her loss is a bitter blow to the Democratic Party, who thought they had seen off Trumpism in 2020.
When will she break cover and face the reality of losing to a twice-impeached convicted felon?
Starmer and Badenoch clash over Trump criticsm
Wednesday 6 November 2024 12:21 , Tom DavidsonA Labour MP shouted “resign” as Kemi Badenoch stood at the despatch box for her first PMQs as Conservative leader, where she asked the Prime Minister to apologise for Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s past comments about Donald Trump.
Ms Badenoch said: “Can I thank the Prime Minister for his almost warm welcome, and can I also echo the comments that he has made: it is an immense privilege and the honour of my life to lead the Conservative Party.”
She added: “As leader of His Majesty’s Opposition I will be taking a different approach to the last opposition by being a constructive opposition.
“And so I would like to start by congratulating President-elect Trump on his impressive victory this morning.
“The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary met him in September. Did the Foreign Secretary take that opportunity to apologise for making derogatory and scatological references, including, and I quote, ‘Trump is not only a woman-hating Neo-Nazi sympathising sociopath, he is also a profound threat to the international order’, and if he did not apologise, will the Prime Minister do so now on his behalf?”
Sir Keir Starmer replied: “There will be many issues on which the leader of the Opposition and I disagree, but there will be issues that do unite this House on national security and Ukraine.”
He added: “The Foreign Secretary and I did meet President-elect Trump just a few weeks ago for dinner for about a couple of hours, and we discussed a number of issues of global significance. It was a very constructive exercise.”
Humanitarian aid organisation urges new administration to 'reject policies that demonise immigrants and asylum seekers'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 12:21The International Rescue Committee, a large humanitarian aid organization, has urged the Trump administration to “continue America’s traditions of humanitarian leadership and care of the most vulnerable.”
The New York-based non-profit also urged the new administration and Congress to “reject policies that demonise immigrants and asylum seekers,” and noted that the US programme to resettle refugees has saved lives and strengthened the fabric of the United States.
IRC is led by Britain’s former top diplomat, David Miliband, and says it provides relief services to people affected by crises in more than 40 countries.
Ed Davey describes Trump victory as 'dark, dark day for globe'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 12:18 , Lydia Chantler-HicksLib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey has condemned the re-election of Donald Trump, describing today as "a dark, dark day for people around the globe”.
“The world’s largest economy and most powerful military will be led by a dangerous, destructive demagogue,” he said in a statement.
"The next President of the United States is a man who actively undermines the rule of law, human rights, international trade, climate action and global security.
"Millions of Americans – especially women and minorities – will be incredibly fearful about what comes next. We stand with them.
"Families across the UK will also be worrying about the damage Trump will do to our economy and our national security.”
He added: "Fixing the UK’s broken relationship with the EU is even more urgent than before. We must strengthen trade and defence cooperation across Europe to help protect ourselves from the damage Trump will do.
"Now more than ever, we must stand up for the core liberal values of equality, democracy, human rights and the rule of law – at home and around the world."
Starmer congratulates Trump at PMQs on 'historic election victory'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 12:06Prime Minister’s Questions has just begun, with Sir Keir Starmer congratulating Donald Trump “on his historic election victory”.
“As the closest of allies, the UK and US will continue to work together to protect our shared values of freedom and democracy,” he said.
“And having had dinner with president-elect Trump just a few weeks ago, I look forward to working with him in the years to come.”
For more updates on PMQs, where Starmer is facing new Tory leader Kemi Badenoch for the first time, you can follow The Standard’s dedicated live blog here.
Sir Keir Starmer expected to give statement on election at PMQs
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:56 , Lydia Chantler-HicksSir Keir Starmer is due to appear at Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons shortly, where the US election is likely to form part of this afternoon’s discussion.
Russia says it will work with new US administration to defend Russian interests
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:54The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that Moscow had no illusions about Donald Trump after he was elected US president and would work with the new US administration to robustly defend Russian national interests.
The ministry said in a statement that Moscow would remain focused on achieving the goals of what it calls its special military operation in Ukraine and that its stance on the conflict remained unchanged.
Hamas 'urges Trump to learn from Biden's mistakes'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:40Palestinian militant group Hamas, which has been fighting Israel for more than a year in Gaza, said the election was a matter for the American people, but it has called for an end to the "blind support" for Israel from the United States.
"We urge Trump to learn from (President Joe) Biden's mistakes," Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told news agency Reuters.
Netanyahu congratulates Trump on 'history's greatest comeback'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:30 , Lydia Chantler-HicksIsraeli Prime Minister Benjami Netanyahu has congratulated Trump on his victory, writing on X: “Congratulations on history's greatest comeback!
“Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America,” he added.
“This is a huge victory!”
His message, which was addressed to Trump and his wife, Melania, was signed “in true friendship” from both Netanyahu and his wife, Sara.
Dear Donald and Melania Trump,
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) November 6, 2024
Congratulations on history’s greatest comeback!
Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America.
This is a huge victory!
In true friendship,… pic.twitter.com/B54NSo2BMA
France and Germany to hold urgent talks over Trump win
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:26 , Lydia Chantler-HicksFrance and Germany urgently coordinated their response to a return of Donald Trump as US President on Wednesday, with Emmanuel Macron saying on X Berlin and Paris would work for a united, stronger more sovereign Europe within "the new context".
In a separate message on X, Macron congratulated Trump and sought to play down previous differences.
France and Germany - the EU's two main powers - are in delicate positions politically, with French President Macron losing much of his power after defeats in elections earlier this year and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz struggling to keep his coalition together.
A hastily arranged bilateral between the countries' two defence ministers will take place in Paris later today, France's defence ministry said.
The two sides are likely to discuss strategy on Ukraine, NATO and EU defence strategy, officials said.
Abortion proposals win in seven states
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:17 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDespite major losses for Democrats in both the Senate and the White House, the party’s central campaign issue surrounding protecting reproductive rights fared much better across the country as abortion rights advocates won on measures in seven states.
The most recent to pass such a measure was Montana, where abortion rights advocates have pushed to enshrine abortion rights until foetal viability into the state constitution as a safeguard against future rollbacks. Though there’s no defined time frame, doctors say viability is sometime after 21 weeks.
In three other states — Florida, Nebraska and South Dakota — voters rejected measures that would have created a constitutional right to abortion.
Americans in London feel 'lucky to live this side of the pond'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:08 , Lydia Chantler-HicksAmerican Democrats who call London home have said they feel “particularly lucky to live on this side of the pond" as Donald Trump stormed to election victory this morning.
Republicans and Democrats packed out the Passyunk Avenue bar in the shadow of the American Embassy in Nine Elms as it screened results throughout last night and into the early hours of this morning.
Among them was Harris voter David, originally from New York, who has lived in the UK for 17 years and now considers London “home”.
Asked what he would think of a Trump win, ahead of its being announced, he said: “I feel particularly lucky to live on this side of the pond.”
Read more reaction from Americans living in London here.
What will Trump presidency mean for US and rest of the world?
Wednesday 6 November 2024 11:03 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump’s victory will have major implications for US trade and climate change policies, the war in Ukraine, Americans' taxes and immigration.
His tariff proposals could spark a fiercer trade war with China and US allies, while his pledges to reduce corporate taxes and implement a spate of new cuts could balloon US debt, economists say.
Trump has promised to launch a mass deportation campaign targeting immigrants who are in the country illegally.
He has also said he wants the authority to fire civil servants he views as disloyal. His opponents fear he will turn the Justice Department and other federal law enforcement agencies into political weapons to investigate perceived enemies.
A second Trump presidency could drive a bigger wedge between Democrats and Republicans on issues such as race, gender, what and how children are taught, and reproductive rights.
Voters' fears about economy believed a major driving force behind Trump victory
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:56US voters identified jobs and the economy as the country's most pressing problem, according to Reuters/Ipsos opinion polls.
Many Americans remained frustrated by higher prices even amid record-high stock markets, fast-growing wages and low unemployment. With the administration of President Joe Biden taking much of the blame, a majority of voters said they trusted Trump more than Harris to address the issue.
Hispanics, traditionally Democratic voters, and lower-income households hit hardest by inflation helped fuel Trump's election victory. His loyal base of rural, white and non-college educated voters again showed up in force.
Trump’s Democrat rival, Vice President Harris, fell short in her 15-week sprint as a candidate, failing to galvanise enough support to defeat Trump or to allay voters' concerns about the economy and immigration.
Trump's election marks historic moment for the US
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:44Donald Trump’s election as 47th President of the United States marks an extraordinary comeback for a former president who refused to accept defeat four years ago, sparked a violent insurrection at the US Capitol, was convicted of felony charges and survived two assassination attempts.
With a win in Wisconsin just now, Trump cleared the 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the presidency, comfortably beating his Democratic rival Kamala Harris.
The victory appears to validate his often unorthodox, bare-knuckle approach to politics. He attacked Harris in deeply personal - often misogynistic and racist - terms as he pushed an apocalyptic picture of a country overrun by violent migrants.
The coarse rhetoric, paired with an image of hypermasculinity, resonated with angry voters - particularly men - in a deeply polarised nation.
As president, he has vowed to pursue an agenda centered on dramatically reshaping the federal government and retribution against his perceived enemies.
He makes history as the oldest person, and the only convicted felon, to be voted in as president.
He will also be only the second president - the first in 132 years, when Grover Cleveland accomplished the feat - to serve non-consecutive terms in the White House.
BREAKING: Trump elected 47th president of the United States
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:35 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDonald Trump has won the key state of Wisconsin, and with it the entire election, according to projections.
Trump has beaten Vice President Kamala Harris in the critical battleground of Wisconsin, winning another 10 electoral college votes to Trump.
He has now secured 277 electoral votes. Just 270 were needed for a victory.
Former Tory MP Rory Stewart describes Trump victory as 'devastating body blow'
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:24 , Lydia Chantler-HicksRory Stewart, the former Conservative MP who now hosts popular podcast The Rest is Politics alongside Alastair Campbell has said: “It is heartbreaking that Trump is now the President.”
For the record - I was completely wrong about Kamala Harris. It is heartbreaking that Trump is now the President.
— Rory Stewart (@RoryStewartUK) November 6, 2024
Mr Stewart previously predicted Kamala Harris would win “comfortably”, but reviewing that prediction this morning he said on his podcast: “I think I was wrong because I’m an optimist.”
"Tonight is a very, very devastating body blow,” he continued. “This is 25 per cent of the global economy. This is the world’s largest, oldest, most mature democracy that has just voted for a multiple convicted felon.”
Just Stop Oil paint US embassy in London orange
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:17 , Lydia Chantler-HicksJust Stop Oil supporters have painted the US embassy building in London in orange paint, as Donald Trump looks set to become the 47th president of the US.
The environmental activist group say they are demanding governments work together to “end the extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030”.
A JSO pokesperson said: “The only real winner of today’s election is the corporate power that controls the major parties in both the US and UK.
“Regardless of who sits in the White House, corporations and billionaires will ensure that the interests of the fossil fuel industry will continue to be prioritised over the wellbeing of ordinary people.
“It is only through people coming together to disrupt ‘business as usual’ that humanity will stand any chance of minimising the effects of climate breakdown, and the resulting social collapse that is already under way.”
New Tory leader Kemi Badenoch congratulates Trump
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:14Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch congratulated Donald Trump on his “historic election victory”.
“The world faces many serious challenges and I look forward to our two countries working together to confront them,” she said.
In pictures: The world watches on as Trump victory looks certain
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:13 , Lydia Chantler-Hicks
Nigel Farage hails 'the most incredible political comeback of our lifetime”.
Wednesday 6 November 2024 10:01 , Lydia Chantler-HicksNigel Farage has hailed Trump’s expected return to the White House as “the most incredible political comeback of our lifetime”.
“Donald Trump is a genuine friend of the United Kingdom, wrote Reform UK leader and Clacton MP Mr Farage, on X.
Donald Trump is a genuine friend of the United Kingdom.
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) November 6, 2024
Keir Starmer must roll out the red carpet for the 47th President of the USA.
This is a huge opportunity to be grasped. pic.twitter.com/Wza4UgzGzh
He urged Sir Keir Starmer to “roll out the red carpet for the 47th President of the USA”.
“This is a huge opportunity to be grasped,” he added.
Mr Farage has been in the US in recent days to support Trump.
He’s done it again. The most incredible political comeback of our lifetime. pic.twitter.com/xJEpcSqdvI
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) November 6, 2024
Trump gave him a special shout-out at one of his final rallies, describing Mr Farage as his “friend”.
Mr Farage was also pictured at the Republican watch party in West Palm Beach, Florida, where Trump delivered his victory speech early this morning.
Last night, he was among guests including billionaire X owner Elon Musk who attended a party at Trump’s Palm Beach residence, Mar-a-Lago. Mr Farage told GB News the mood there was “joyous”.
Scotland's First Minister congratulates Trump
Wednesday 6 November 2024 09:52 , Lydia Chantler-HicksScotland’s First Minister John Swinney has congratulated Donald Trump.
In a post on X he wrote: “Congratulations to President-elect Trump on his election.
“Scotland and the USA share many social, cultural and economic links.
“In that relationship, we will stand fast in support of our values of fairness, democracy and equality – ideals that America was built upon.”
No plans for Putin to congratulate Trump, says Kremlin, as Russia-US relationship at historic low
Wednesday 6 November 2024 09:47 , Lydia Chantler-HicksMessages of congratulations for Donald Trump have been pouring in from world leaders this morning.
But Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he was not aware of any plans by Vladimir Putin to congratulate Trump on his election victory, and people should not forget that the United States was an unfriendly country towards Russia.
Moscow is watching closely and analysing statements made by American politicians about Russia, Mr Peskov told reporters.
Mr Peskov said relations between the two countries were at a historic low, and it was practically impossible for them to get worse.
He said the US was capable of changing the trajectory of its foreign policy, but "we'll see in January", when Trump takes office, if that happens.
How do the votes currently stand?
Wednesday 6 November 2024 09:41 , Lydia Chantler-HicksThough the election isn’t over yet, Donald Trump has claimed a “magnificent victory for the American people” and it is looking very likely that he will win.
Trump leads with a majority of 267 electoral votes compared to Harris’ 224 - and at least 270 are needed to win the election. Currently, the final results in Nevada, Arizona, Alaska, Wisconsin and Michigan are yet to be confirmed.
Although Trump hasn’t officially reached 270 electoral votes, it appears likely that he will win the election and return for a second term as president, becoming the second president in history to serve non-consecutive terms after Grover Cleveland in the 1800s.
According to the Associated Press, as it stands Trump is also leading the popular vote, scoring over 69 million votes over Harris, whose votes sit at just under 64 million.
Read more here.
Trump victory shows 'progress is not inevitable', says Sadiq Khan in message to 'fearful' Londoners
Wednesday 6 November 2024 09:33 , 'London will always be for everyone' assures Sadiq KhanMayor Sadiq Khan has assured “fearful” Londoners that the capital “will always be for everyone” as he said Trump’s likely victory shows “progress is not inevitable”.
Mr Khan, who had a long-running row with Donald Trump during his first term in the White House, said: "I know that many Londoners will be anxious about the outcome of the US presidential election.
"Many will be fearful about what it will mean for democracy and for women's rights, or how the result impacts the situation in the Middle East or the fate of Ukraine. Others will be worried about the future of Nato or tackling the climate crisis."
He said "London is - and will always be - for everyone" and "we will always be pro-women, pro-diversity, pro-climate and pro-human rights".
"The lesson of today is that progress is not inevitable,” he added.
"But asserting our progressive values is more important than ever - re-committing to building a world where racism and hatred is rejected, the fundamental rights of women and girls are upheld, and where we continue to tackle the crisis of climate change head on."
What did Trump say in his victory speech?
Wednesday 6 November 2024 09:13Trump declared he has won a "magnificent victory for the American people", as he addressed a campaign party in Florida in the early hours of this morning.
As he looked on track to return to the White House as 47th President of the United States, Mr Trump, 78, told jubilant supporters that "America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate".
He said he would not let his backers down and that it is "time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us".
Mr Trump pledged to "fight" for "every citizen" and promised the "golden age of America".
He said: "Every single day I will be fighting for you with every breath in my body.
"I will not rest until we have delivered the strong, safe and prosperous America that our children deserve, and that you deserve."
He added: "This is a magnificent victory for the American people that will allow us to make America great again."
Before he left the stage in Florida, Mr Trump vowed to not let his supporters down, and told them "It's time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us. It's time to unite."
He added: "Success is going to bring us together and we are going to start by all putting America first. We have to fix it because together we can truly make America great again for all Americans.
"So I want to just tell you what a great honour this is. I want to thank you. I will not let you down.
"America's future will be bigger, better, bolder, richer, safer and stronger than it has ever been before."
European Commission president says she’s looking forward to working with Trump
Wednesday 6 November 2024 09:00 , Lydia Chantler-HicksThe European Union’s top official says she’s looking forward to working with Trump again as the former president is on the cusp of victory in the US presidential race.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU and US “are more than just allies. We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens.”
“Let us work together on a transatlantic partnership that continues to deliver for our citizens,” she said in a statement. “Millions of jobs and billions in trade and investment on each side of the Atlantic depend on the dynamism and stability of our economic relationship.”
Click here to read the full blog on The The Standard's website
