Former President George W. Bush has publicly congratulated Donald Trump on his return to the White House after defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in a hard-fought election. In a heartfelt Instagram post on Wednesday, Bush extended his well-wishes to President-elect Trump, Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, and their families, expressing hope for a successful term.
Bush’s message highlighted his appreciation for the democratic process and the high voter turnout. “The strong turnout in this election is a sign of the health of our republic and the strength of our democratic institutions,” he wrote. He went on to acknowledge the service of outgoing President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris, showing respect for their time in office.
Bush, who often steers clear of election commentary, took this opportunity to commend the efforts of election officials, poll workers, and volunteers nationwide. “Laura and I are grateful to the election officials, poll workers, and volunteers who oversaw a free and fair election,” Bush added. “We join our fellow citizens in praying for the success of our new leaders at all levels of government. May God continue to bless our great country.”
In the closing days of the election, former Representative Liz Cheney, a supporter of Harris, reportedly encouraged Bush to endorse the vice president. However, Bush maintained his silence, choosing to weigh in only after the race was called. Speaking at the New Yorker Festival, Cheney expressed her hope that Bush would speak out, saying, “I can’t explain why George W. Bush hasn’t spoken out, but I think it’s time, and I wish that he would.”
Early on Wednesday morning, major news outlets, including the Associated Press and The New York Times, called the race for Trump after he secured wins in key battleground states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Trump’s projected win in Wisconsin solidified his victory, with three of seven swing states turning red.
The Trump campaign celebrated well into the night in West Palm Beach, Florida, where supporters gathered to commemorate the historic win. Harris waited until late Wednesday morning to call Trump and congratulate him on his victory, a gesture of respect for the incoming administration.
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