Biden to address nation following Trump’s surprising election win

President Joe Biden will address the nation on Thursday following former President Donald Trump’s unexpected and decisive victory, a result that has stunned political observers and raised questions about the U.S. policy direction in the years ahead.

Biden, who stepped aside as the Democratic candidate in July in favor of Vice President Kamala Harris amid concerns about his health, will speak from the White House, officials said. The president aims to offer assurances to Americans and discuss the transition, despite sharp policy divides between his administration and the incoming one.

Vice President Harris, who was emotional in addressing her supporters Wednesday, expressed her commitment to a smooth transition but highlighted her concerns about Trump’s agenda. “This election is not just about who holds office—it’s about the future of our values as a nation,” Harris said. “I respect the decision of the voters, but I do not share his vision.”

Trump’s campaign confirmed Biden has invited Trump to meet at the White House, though details are not yet finalized. Meanwhile, Trump’s supporters are celebrating what many consider a major rebuke to Biden’s economic policies, especially amid rising inflation and concerns over border security and cultural issues. Trump defied polls that predicted a close race, securing victories in five of the seven battleground states and leading in Arizona and Nevada as counting continues.

With Republicans regaining control of the Senate, Trump is likely to have a GOP majority in at least one chamber of Congress. Analysts see this shift as setting the stage for a renewed push for lower taxes and less regulation. “This election is a clear signal that the American people want change—they want the government to stop interfering in their lives,” said GOP strategist John Hayes. “They’re ready for a more business-friendly environment, and Trump is promising to deliver that.”

Global leaders have begun to react to Trump’s return to office. Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Trump, saying he hopes for “peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.” Yet many experts anticipate intensified tensions between the two superpowers, especially if Trump follows through on his plan to reinstate tariffs on Chinese imports. “It’s a very real possibility we’re headed for even more economic friction,” said Ilaria Mazzocco, deputy director at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “Trump has always viewed tariffs as leverage, and he’s not likely to back down now.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also congratulated Trump, but the implications for U.S. support of Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia remain unclear. Trump, who has criticized Biden’s aid for Ukraine, has said he could “end the war in 24 hours,” though he has yet to provide specifics on how. As Biden’s term winds down, his administration is expediting billions in security assistance to Kyiv, sources said, aiming to ensure critical support is in place before Trump’s inauguration.

Investor optimism surged in response to Trump’s win, pushing U.S. stocks to record highs as Wall Street anticipates reduced regulations and lower taxes under a Trump administration. “The markets are reacting positively because they expect a return to pro-business policies,” said market analyst Sarah Foster. “But there’s also a looming question—will Trump’s trade policies lead to a new era of tariffs and inflationary pressures?”

In terms of personnel, Trump’s campaign is already floating high-profile names for key positions. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, an outspoken Trump supporter, is reportedly under consideration for a major role. “Musk is the kind of bold thinker Trump wants in his administration,” said political commentator Tom Reeve. Other possible picks include JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. “Trump wants people who know how to get things done,” Reeve added.