Biden calls Trump’s refusal to concede an ‘embarrassment’

While speaking to the press on Tuesday, President-elect Joe Biden said it was an “embarrassment’” that President Trump has refused to concede the election. Biden added that it “will not help the president’s legacy.”

Video Transcript

- Sir, what do you say to the Americans that are anxious over the fact that President Trump has yet to concede and what that might mean for the country?

JOE BIDEN: Well, I just think it's an embarrassment, quite frankly. The only thing that-- how can I say this tactfully? I think it will not help the president's legacy. I think that-- I know from my discussions with foreign leaders thus far that they are hopeful that the United States Democratic Institutions are viewed once again as being strong and enduring.

But I think at the end of the day, you know, it's all going to come to fruition on January 20. And between now and then, my hope and expectation is that the American people do know and do understand that there has been a transition, even among Republicans who are people who voted for the president. I understand the sense of loss, I get that. But I think the majority of the people who voted for the president, a lot voted for him a significantly smaller number, but a lot voted for him. I think they understand that we have to come together. I think they're ready to unite, and I believe we can pull the country out of this bitter politics that we've seen for the last five, six, seven years.

- And just to follow up on a previous question, how do you expect to work with Republicans if they won't even acknowledge you as president-elect?

JOE BIDEN: They will. They will. Thank you all so very much.