Isai RochaProjected President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris addressed the nation in Wilmington, Delaware, as supporters across the nation celebrated, Saturday.
Harris reached the stage first and spoke on being the first woman to be vice presidential and what it means for the future of women in the U.S.
“What a testament it is to Joe’s character that he had the audacity to break one of the most substantial barriers that exists in our country and select a woman as his vice president,” Harris said before introducing Biden. “While I may be the first person in this office, I will not be the last, because every little girl watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities.”
Harris then introduced Biden, who spoke about record-breaking voter turnout and gave a message of uniting the country.
“For all those of you who voted for President Trump, I understand the disappointment tonight,” Biden said. “I’ve lost a couple times myself, but now, let’s give each other a chance.”
Biden added that he was surprised and inspired by the record number of votes he received, saying, “While I must admit it surprised me, tonight, we’re seeing all over this nation, all cities and all parts of the country… an outpouring of joy and hope —renewed faith in tomorrow.”
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After the Associated Press called the race for Biden, supporters took to the streets waving Biden/Harris flags and blasting music from their cars. Thousands rallied in different parts of L.A. County, from Hollywood, to Downtown L.A. and even Boyle Heights.
Boyle Heights had planned a march to “Demand Democracy” at the Mariachi Plaza. The rally came after President Donald Trump made several attempts to stop votes in different states across the country, claiming voter fraud. The protesters were ready to make their voices heard and demand that every vote be counted.
Many gathered in Boyle Heights in a “Demand Democracy” protest, Saturday. (Photo by Albert Serna)
The tone of the rally, as well as other demonstrations in L.A., turned to celebration after the announcement of Biden’s victory was made.
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti spoke on the rallies happening around L.A. and said he understood the excitement in Angelenos, but asked that they keep in mind that a pandemic is still affecting the city and citizens should celebrate cautiously.
“While many Angelenos are out in their communities on this historic day, please remember COVID-19 is still a threat,” Garcetti said on Saturday. “Please wear your mask consistently, maintain 6 feet or more of distance from those around you. These steps will help keep your neighbors, friends and families safe.”
A similar sentiment was shared by Los Angeles Public Health urging the public to avoid gatherings, while simultaneously announcing 15 new deaths and 2,418 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.
While the Associated Press and other reputable national news organizations have called the presidential race, the votes are still being finalized in several states, and President Trump has yet to concede—saying the race is “far from over.”
Electors officially vote in their states on December 14, and any disputes over the election process must be resolved by December 8.
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