This Was Obama's Reaction To Biden's Presidential Win

When Americans learned on Nov. 7, 2020, that Democratic nominee Joe Biden would be the next president of the United States (and California Sen. Kamala Harris would be vice president), one of the most anticipated reactions was that of former President Barack Obama. Obama and Biden have a special relationship, as they referred to each other as brothers throughout the time that Obama was in office. Obama also referred to Biden as his "brother" in his 2017 farewell speech, per TIME.

One of the most pivotal moments in their friendship was when Obama surprised then-Vice President Joe Biden by awarding him the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction. In an interview that aired the same day, Biden told NBC's Andrea Mitchell of their special relationship— "I don't like him, I love him." Aw.

Given that relationship, it's safe to say Obama's words of congratulations for Biden and Harris hold special meaning. In Obama's statement congratulating President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, he said he "could not be prouder." He also noted that he and Michelle Obama are looking forward to supporting the nation's next president and first lady. Here's what else he had to say.

In a Twitter statement released on Nov. 7, 2020, Barack Obama said, "We're fortunate that Joe's got what it takes to be President and already carries himself that way. Because when he walks into the White House in January, he'll face a series of extraordinary challenges no incoming President ever has — a raging pandemic, an unequal economy and justice system, a democracy at risk, and a climate in peril." 

Obama also referenced the fact that the nation is bitterly divided, stating, "I know he'll do the job with the best interests of every American at heart, whether or not he had their vote. I encourage every American to give him a chance and lend him your support.

As for his thoughts on what could unify the nation, Obama said, "It will be up to not just Joe and Kamala, but each of us, to do our part — to reach out beyond our comfort zone, to listen to others, to lower the temperature and find some common ground from which to move forward, all of us remembering that we are one nation, under God." In conclusion, Barack Obama gave thanks to voters and everyone on Joe Biden's campaign team, saying, "Your efforts made a difference. Enjoy this moment." He added, "Our democracy needs all of us more than ever."