Kamala Harris said the fight for freedom takes hard work in a concession speech after a crushing defeat to Donald Trump, completing a stunning political comeback for the 78-year-old Republican four years after leaving the White House.
Trump has won 294 Electoral College votes, passing the threshold of 270 needed to give him the keys to the White House for a second term.
In a victory speech he promised “the golden age of America” at West Palm Beach, Florida, as he was joined on the stage by his family including wife Melania and son Barron.
Vice President Kamala Harris said: "In our nation, we owe loyalty not to a president or a party but to the Constitution of the United States and loyalty to our conscience and our God.
"My loyalty to all three is why I say, while I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fuelled this campaign."
Follow the latest developments below...
Key points
- Trump gives victory speech to jubilant supporters in Florida
- Sir Keir Starmer and other world leaders congratulate Trump
- Elon Musk celebrates Trump's predicted election win with bizarre sink picture
- Republicans seize control of Senate
- London Democrats feel 'lucky' to live here as Trump claims vote win
Live coverage resumes tomorrow
22:30 , Jacob PhillipsThe Evening Standard’s live coverage of the US Election has been paused.
Our live coverage will resume on Thursday morning. You can read the latest US politics news from the Standard here.
Obamas congratulate Trump and Vance on their White House win
22:24 , Jacob PhillipsFormer President Barack Obama, along with former First Lady Michelle Obama, said the election’s result “is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for” but noted that “living in a democracy is about recognizing that our point of view won’t always win out, and being willing to accept the peaceful transfer of power.”
Congratulating Trump and Vance, the Obamas expressed pride for Harris and Walz, for both of whom they campaigned, calling them “two extraordinary public servants who ran a remarkable campaign.”
The Obamas cast forward with hope for a divided America, saying that the nation’s problems are solvable “only if we listen to each other, and only if we abide by the core constitutional principles and democratic norms that made this country great.”
The blog will close for tonight and return in the morning. Thank you for reading.
'I know many people feel we are entering dark times' admits Harris
21:42 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris closed her speech in Washington by saying “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars”.
She told her supporters: “I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time but for the benefit of us all I hope that is not the case.
“America if it is let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, billion of stars.
“The light of optimism, of faith, of truth, and service.”
'We will never give up the fight for our democracy' Harris continues
21:38 , Jacob PhillipsVice President Kamala Harris has called on Americans to “look into the face of a stranger and see a neighbour” as she conceded the election.
Ms Harris told crowds: “I will never give up the fight for a future where Americans can pursue their dreams, ambitions and aspirations.
“Where the woman of America have the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies and not have their government telling them what to do.
“We will never give up the fight to protect our schools and our streets from gun violence.
“America we will never give up the fight for our democracy.”
'We must accept the result of this election' - Harris
21:34 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has told crowds that “we must accept the result of this election”.
She told supporters: “Earlier today I spoke to President-Elect Trump and congratulated him on his election victory.
“I also told him that we will help him and his team with their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transfer of power.
“A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election we accept the result.”
She added: “At the same time in our nation we owe loyalty not to a president or a party but to the constitution of the United States.”
The Vice President continued: “While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign.”
Kamala Harris takes to the stage
21:28 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has taken to the stage at Howard University, smiling and waving to her supporters.
She told crowds: “My heart is full today, full of gratitude for the trust you have placed in me, for the love for our country and full of resolve.
“The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we thought for, not what we voted for. But hear me when I say the light of America’s promise will always burn bright.
“As long as we never give up and as long as we keep fighting.”
The Vice President then sent her love to her family and thanked Joe Biden and his wife for their “faith and support”.
Prime Minister congratulates Trump on 'historic victory'
21:14 , Jacob PhillipsSir Keir Starmer has spoken to Donald Trump and congratulated him on his “history victory” on Wednesday evening, a Downing Street spokeswoman said.
She explained: “The Prime Minister offered his hearty congratulations and said he looked forward to working closely with President-elect Trump across all areas of the special relationship.
“From defence and security to growth and prosperity, the relationship between the UK and US was incredibly strong and would continue to thrive for many years to come, the leaders agreed.
“The Prime Minister also reflected on the situation in the Middle East and underscored the importance of regional stability.
“The leaders fondly recalled their meeting in September, and President-elect Trump’s close connections and affinity to the United Kingdom and looked forward to working with one another.”
Harris to speak imminently
21:07 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has left the vice president’s residence and is travelling to Howard University, her alma mater, to publicly concede the election to President-elect Trump.
Harris has already spoken to Trump by telephone to congratulate him on winning, according to one of the VP’s aides. Trump’s team has confirmed the conversation.
Second gentleman Doug Emhoff will join Harris at Howard.
Kamala Harris to speak to the public shortly after conceding to Donald Trump
20:44 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris is expected to deliver a concession speech shortly having recently spoken to Donald Trump.
The Vice President chose not to address supporters on election night but will deliver a speech at around 4pm ET, that is 9pm here in London.
Ms Harris earlier spoke to Trump and urged him to be a President for “all Americans”.
Criminal cases against Trump could be wound down due to longstanding rules
20:29 , Jacob PhillipsThe Justice Department in the US is evaluating how to wind down criminal cases against Trump to comply with longstanding rules that presidents cannot be prosecuted.
Special counsel Jack Smith charged Trump last year with plotting to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and illegally hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
But, officials believe that Trump's victory could mean he can no longer face prosecution following decades-old rules meant to shield presidents from criminal charges while in office.
Veteran Democrat advisor says 'we dug out of a deep hole but not enough'
20:15 , Jacob PhillipsA top Democrat aid who advised President Barack Obama and Kamala Harris has described Trump’s victory as a “devastating loss”.
David Plouffe wrote on Wednesday that the Democratic operation “left it all on the field for their county” but eventually it was not enough against Trump.
“We dug out of a deep hole but not enough,” Mr Plouffe wrote. “A devastating loss. Thanks for being in the arena, all of you.”
Plouffe’s comments come at a time when some Democrats are starting to blame President Biden for not stepping away earlier, constraining Harris to a truncated campaign.
German government's future unclear as Scholz sacks his finance minister
20:06 , Jacob PhillipsAway from the US another election that could have big implications on the UK may be on the horizon.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz sacked his Finance Minister Christian Lindner on Wednesday after weeks of wrangling over the economic direction of the government, sources told Reuters.
Newspaper Bild had earlier reported that Lindner had recommended early elections as a solution to the budget impasse, a proposal Scholz had rejected.
It was unclear if Lindner's dismissal would lead also to the departure of the Free Democrats (FDP) from the coalition.
Without the FDP, Scholz could continue to head a minority government, either alone with his Social Democrats or with the Greens, the second largest party, relying on cobbled together ad hoc parliamentary majorities
Biden calls Trump and invites him to the White House
19:45 , Jacob PhillipsJoe Biden has called President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his election win.
The President, who beat Trump in 2020, has invited him to the White House for a transition meeting.
Originally Mr Biden was the Democrat candidate at the 2024 election but he was replaced by Vice President Kamala Harris following a car crash debate against Trump early in the campaign.
What does Trump's victory mean for the City of London?
19:31 , Jacob PhillipsKamala Harris has conceded the 2024 election and spoken to Donald Trump.
But what does the result mean for the City and London’s economy on the other side of the pond?
Ebullient financial markets were in a Georgia state of mind through the dark early morning hours as they reacted to the results from the seismic US Presidential and Congressional elections hitting their trading screens.
The moment the Deep South state was projected for Trump, at around 5.30am London time, set dealing rooms all over the world alight.
Until that crucial moment, investors had remained cautious, expecting a close and possibly undecided race between the two candidates and the dollar had little movement against other currencies.
Read our deep dive into what the election means for the City of London and the financial markets in the UK here.
Breaking: Kamala Harris concedes 2024 election
18:48 , Daniel KeaneKamala Harris has conceded the 2024 election in a phone call with Donald Trump, a source has told NBC.
The Vice President is said to have congratulated her Republican rival and urged him to be a President for “all Americans”.
"She discussed the importance of a peaceful transfer of power and being a president for all Americans," an aide of Ms Harris said.
US election - key dates to look out for
18:32 , Daniel Keane- November 26: Donald Trump will be sentenced in a Manhattan hush money case where he was found guilty of falsifying documents to cover up a payment to silence a porn star. Trump has denied wrongdoing.
- December 17: Electors, will meet in their respective states and the District of Columbia to select the president and vice president
- January 6, 2025: Vice President Harris presides over the Electoral College vote count at a joint session of Congress, announces the results and declares who has been elected
Trump wins battleground state of Michigan
18:05 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump has picked up another battleground state, winning Michigan to complete a sweep of the “Blue Wall” states in the Upper Midwest around the Great Lakes.
The race came down to the final results from Wayne County, where Harris wasn’t able to match Biden’s 2020 winning margin in the Democratic-dominated county that’s home to Detroit.
Nikki Haley calls Trump’s win ‘a great moment for democracy’
18:01 , Jacob PhillipsFormer Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, who became one of Trump’s more vocal challengers in the 2024 Republican primary before eventually endorsing him, said on her radio show Wednesday that he “defied gravity” with his win.
“He got through two assassination attempts. He got through two impeachments, he got through numerous indictments, and America still elected him because, at the end of the day, they knew what they were getting with Donald Trump. And that’s what they wanted to see,” she said.
Haley called it “a great moment for democracy.”
France's Macron had a "very good exchange" with Donald Trump, says Elysee
17:56 , Jacob PhillipsFrench President Emmanuel Macron had a "very good exchange" with Donald Trump, who secured the U.S. presidency four years after being voted out of the White House, on Wednesday evening, said the French presidential palace Elysee.
"The two leaders talked about Ukraine and the Middle East," the Elysee said.
Netanyahu discusses 'Iranian threat' with Trump
17:50 , Jacob PhillipsIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoke with Donald Trump to congratulate him, and they discussed "the Iranian threat" and the need to work together for Israel's security, Netanyahu's office said.
The conversation was “warm and cordial” according to the Israeli Prime Minister’s team.
Meanwhile, Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, called for an end to the "blind support" for Israel from the United States.
'It's a war on women' - Billie Eilish
17:18 , Jacob PhillipsUS superstar Billie Eilish seems to have reacted to the US election result on her Instagram story.
The Bad Guy singer posted a blank picture on Instagram with the phrase “It’s a war on women” - appearing to respond to Donald Trump’s victory.
What are Trump's key policies?
17:10 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump will be returning to the White House for a second term as president of the United States, after securing a triumphant victory against Vice President Kamala Harris.
But what can we expect from the convicted felon? From policies on immigration, the climate crisis, foreign wars and tariffs, the impact will be felt in all aspects of American life and across the globe.
While some of his proposals would require congressional approval, many wouldn’t.
You can read a summary of the key policies Trump has said he would pursue during his second term in office here.
Trump closing in on 'trifecta' after nearly securing House of Representatives
16:59 , Jacob PhillipsThe Republicans are just 19 votes away from winning the House of Representatives.
So far Donald Trump's party have won the presidential election and secured a majority in the Senate.
The lower chamber previously had a Republican majority, but the Democrats were hoping to flip several key seats.
Winning all three of the House, Senate and presidency is known as the "trifecta" and would hand Mr Trump sweeping powers to pass legislation and enact policy.
'I'm trying to stay optimistic for the country that I come from' - US Londoner says
16:22 , Jacob PhillipsAmerican Londoners have been reacting to the news that Donald Trump is returning to the White House.
One American told AP: “I’m struggling a little bit with some of that but I’m trying to stay optimistic about what the process will look like for the country that I come from.
“For me it’s a tough day. It’s not my first choice for sure.”
Another American citizen speaking in London added: “Would I have liked to have seen a Harris government? I think a lot of people would have done.
“But maybe Trump coming in forces people to be a bit more realistic about what they need to do to look after their own interests rather than looking for a benign US government.”
Former president George W. Bush has congratulated Trump
16:08 , Jacob PhillipsIn a statement, former President George W. Bush said he and his wife, Laura, “join our fellow citizens in praying for the success of our new leaders at all levels of government.”
Some top former Republican officials, including Bush’s vice president, Dick Cheney, had endorsed Harris. But Bush remained neutral.
Bush also thanked “President Biden and Vice President Harris for their service to our country.”
“The strong turnout in this election is a sign of the health of our republic and the strength of our democratic institutions,” said Bush, who called the election a “free, fair, safe, and secure election.”
STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH ON THE 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION:
— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) November 6, 2024
CRAWFORD, TEXAS — I congratulate President Trump on his election as 47th President of the United States of America, as well as Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and their families.
I also thank President…
Harris expected to make a speech at around 9pm, sources say
16:01 , Jacob PhillipsSpeculation has been building around when Kamala Harris may concede the election.
The Vice President chose not to address her supporters on election night but sources say she will deliver a concession speech at 4pm ET (9pm GMT).
Jeff Bezos congratulates Donald Trump on election victory
15:48 , John DunneAmazon founderJeff Bezos congratulates Donald Trump on election victory, in a social media post.
Bezos is one of the world’s richest men alongside Elon Musk who backed Trump’s campaign.
Big congratulations to our 45th and now 47th President on an extraordinary political comeback and decisive victory. No nation has bigger opportunities. Wishing @realDonaldTrump all success in leading and uniting the America we all love.
— Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) November 6, 2024
Vladimir Putin 'has no immediate plans' to congratulate Donald Trump on his election victory
15:34 , John DunneThe Kremlin has said there are no plans for President Vladimir Putin to congratulate Donald Trump on his election victory.
Trump has previously suggested he had a good relationship with Putin in the past.
"I'm not aware of any plans [for President Putin] to congratulate Trump," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
"Don't forget that [America] is an 'unfriendly country' which is directly and indirectly involved in a war against our state."
Kamala Harris expected to address supporters following election defeat
14:59 , John DunneKamala Harris is expected to address her supporters in the coming hours after her defeat by Donald Trump.
Vice President Harris is expected to address her supporters and the nation this afternoon from Howard University. @MSNBC
— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) November 6, 2024
JD Vance thanks supporters as he prepares for office with Donald Trump
14:54 , John DunneVice president elect JD Vance has thanked his supporters and family in a post on social media.
THANK YOU!
— JD Vance (@JDVance) November 6, 2024
To my beautiful wife for making it possible to do this.
To President Donald J. Trump, for giving me such an opportunity to serve our country at this level.
And to the American people, for their trust. I will never stop fighting for ALL of you.
Mexico President says Trump win 'no cause for concern' despite pledge to build wall between countries
14:46 , John DunneMexico President Claudia Sheinbaum says Trump's victory is "no cause for concern" for her country despite Donald Trump’s pledge to build a wall between the two countries to crack down on illegal immigration.
She said: "We are a free, independent, sovereign country and there will be good relations with the United States.”
Trump has promised to finish the wall he promised in his last term of office.
He has also threatened to put high tariffs on the country if it does not stop immigrants from illegally crossing into the US.
Trump's plan for second term
14:18 , Tom DavidsonDonald Trump has promised sweeping action in a second administration.
The former president and now president-elect often skipped over details but through more than a year of policy pronouncements and written statements outlined a wide-ranging agenda that blends traditional conservative approaches to taxes, regulation and cultural issues with a more populist bent on trade and a shift in America’s international role.
Trump’s agenda also would scale back federal government efforts on civil rights and expand presidential powers.
How will Trump's win impact the London property market?
14:03 , Lydia Chantler-HicksLondon's high-end estate agents have been busy overnight with enquiries from anti-Trump Americans keen to rent trophy homes in the capital’s most prestigious streets.
"My team have been up most of the night fielding enquiries from many of the US cities that we work with, including New York and Los Angeles," says Becky Fatemi of Sotheby's International Realty.
“The most immediate requests are for rentals. They want wide-fronted townhouses in Notting Hill or large lateral apartments in buildings with a porter, such as the Peninsula. We expect to see this demand continue," she adds.
Longer term, a Trump victory could also pump up the deflated central London sales market as wealthy Democrats look to relocate to the UK.
James Gow, head of London residential sales for Strutt & Parker, believes the activity will bleed over into the sales sector in what is known as Prime Central London (PCL), and boost this micro-market – which is small in footprint but large in value for the UK economy.
"Trump is such a polarising figure that there will be some wealthy Americans who will just think, 'I do not agree with his rhetoric and I just cannot be a part of it,'" he says.
Read more here.
Trump's return will empower right-wing movements across the globe, says Brazil's Bolsonaro
13:54 , Lydia Chantler-HicksBrazil’s far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro has said Trump’s imminent return to the White House marks “the triumph of the people’s will over the arrogant designs of an elite who disdain our values, beliefs, and traditions.”
He said on X that Trump’s “historic” victory would empower right-wing and conservative movements across the globe, and he hoped it would inspire Brazil to “follow the same path.”
- Today, we witness the resurgence of a true warrior. A man who, even after facing a brutal electoral process in 2020 and an unjustifiable judicial persecution, has risen again, as few in history have managed to do.
— Jair M. Bolsonaro (@jairbolsonaro) November 6, 2024
- Against all oposition from globalists and the deep state,…
Bolsonaro lost his reelection bid in late 2022 and a little over two months later, his supporters stormed the capital in a bid to restore him to power. It was widely seen as an echo of the US Capitol insurrection two years earlier, and Bolsonaro is now the target of several investigations.
Downing Street refuses to be drawn on whether Starmer is concerned about making trade negotiations with Trump-led US
13:40 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDowning Street refused to be drawn on "future policy discussions" when asked whether Sir Keir Starmer is concerned about the prospect of future trade agreements with the US following Donald Trump's victory.
Asked whether the Prime Minister was worried about Mr Trump's stated desire to place tariffs on goods from China and elsewhere, his spokesman said: "We look forward to working with President-elect Trump including on a wide range of his policy priorities to improve the UK-US trading relations and to support the significant investment relationship that supports millions of jobs across our two countries.
"I'm not going to get into future policy discussions."
Starmer seeks ‘strong, special relationship’ with US after Trump election win
13:02 , Tom DavidsonThe UK will work with Donald Trump on economic and security issues, Sir Keir Starmer said as he insisted the “special relationship” will prosper with the new president-elect.
The Prime Minister congratulated Mr Trump on a “historic election victory” after American voters returned him to the White House.
Sir Keir was among the first world leaders to congratulate Mr Trump as the Government sought to build bridges with the president-elect after the Republican politician’s campaign filed a legal complaint about Labour activists supporting rival Kamala Harris.
Husband of Harris's campaign manager weighs in
12:43 , Tom DavidsonThe Democratic Party faces a reckoning with itself - and a battle with a triumphant Trump-led Republican Party that enjoys a majority in the House, the Senate and a favourable Supreme Court.
I believed. I truly did. I am as immensely proud of @jomalleydillon as ever, today and always, and nothing can shake that. My family gave everything we could to stop this, perhaps more than it should. Many of you will be sure how to have done it better, and some more cruel about…
— Patrick Dillon (@mpdillon) November 6, 2024
No sign of Kamala Harris
12:37 , Tom DavidsonWith Donald Trump having eclipsed 270 electoral votes, there is now no hope for Kamala Harris or her campaign.
The Vice President, who will now have two thankless more months in that role, is yet to give a concession speech. Her loss is a bitter blow to the Democratic Party, who thought they had seen off Trumpism in 2020.
When will she break cover and face the reality of losing to a twice-impeached convicted felon?
Starmer and Badenoch clash over Trump criticsm
12:21 , Tom DavidsonA Labour MP shouted “resign” as Kemi Badenoch stood at the despatch box for her first PMQs as Conservative leader, where she asked the Prime Minister to apologise for Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s past comments about Donald Trump.
Ms Badenoch said: “Can I thank the Prime Minister for his almost warm welcome, and can I also echo the comments that he has made: it is an immense privilege and the honour of my life to lead the Conservative Party.”
She added: “As leader of His Majesty’s Opposition I will be taking a different approach to the last opposition by being a constructive opposition.
“And so I would like to start by congratulating President-elect Trump on his impressive victory this morning.
“The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary met him in September. Did the Foreign Secretary take that opportunity to apologise for making derogatory and scatological references, including, and I quote, ‘Trump is not only a woman-hating Neo-Nazi sympathising sociopath, he is also a profound threat to the international order’, and if he did not apologise, will the Prime Minister do so now on his behalf?”
Sir Keir Starmer replied: “There will be many issues on which the leader of the Opposition and I disagree, but there will be issues that do unite this House on national security and Ukraine.”
He added: “The Foreign Secretary and I did meet President-elect Trump just a few weeks ago for dinner for about a couple of hours, and we discussed a number of issues of global significance. It was a very constructive exercise.”
Humanitarian aid organisation urges new administration to 'reject policies that demonise immigrants and asylum seekers'
12:21The International Rescue Committee, a large humanitarian aid organization, has urged the Trump administration to “continue America’s traditions of humanitarian leadership and care of the most vulnerable.”
The New York-based non-profit also urged the new administration and Congress to “reject policies that demonise immigrants and asylum seekers,” and noted that the US programme to resettle refugees has saved lives and strengthened the fabric of the United States.
IRC is led by Britain’s former top diplomat, David Miliband, and says it provides relief services to people affected by crises in more than 40 countries.
Ed Davey describes Trump victory as 'dark, dark day for globe'
12:18 , Lydia Chantler-HicksLib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey has condemned the re-election of Donald Trump, describing today as "a dark, dark day for people around the globe”.
“The world’s largest economy and most powerful military will be led by a dangerous, destructive demagogue,” he said in a statement.
"The next President of the United States is a man who actively undermines the rule of law, human rights, international trade, climate action and global security.
"Millions of Americans – especially women and minorities – will be incredibly fearful about what comes next. We stand with them.
"Families across the UK will also be worrying about the damage Trump will do to our economy and our national security.”
He added: "Fixing the UK’s broken relationship with the EU is even more urgent than before. We must strengthen trade and defence cooperation across Europe to help protect ourselves from the damage Trump will do.
"Now more than ever, we must stand up for the core liberal values of equality, democracy, human rights and the rule of law – at home and around the world."
Starmer congratulates Trump at PMQs on 'historic election victory'
12:06Prime Minister’s Questions has just begun, with Sir Keir Starmer congratulating Donald Trump “on his historic election victory”.
“As the closest of allies, the UK and US will continue to work together to protect our shared values of freedom and democracy,” he said.
“And having had dinner with president-elect Trump just a few weeks ago, I look forward to working with him in the years to come.”
For more updates on PMQs, where Starmer is facing new Tory leader Kemi Badenoch for the first time, you can follow The Standard’s dedicated live blog here.
Sir Keir Starmer expected to give statement on election at PMQs
11:56 , Lydia Chantler-HicksSir Keir Starmer is due to appear at Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons shortly, where the US election is likely to form part of this afternoon’s discussion.
Russia says it will work with new US administration to defend Russian interests
11:54The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that Moscow had no illusions about Donald Trump after he was elected US president and would work with the new US administration to robustly defend Russian national interests.
The ministry said in a statement that Moscow would remain focused on achieving the goals of what it calls its special military operation in Ukraine and that its stance on the conflict remained unchanged.
Hamas 'urges Trump to learn from Biden's mistakes'
11:40Palestinian militant group Hamas, which has been fighting Israel for more than a year in Gaza, said the election was a matter for the American people, but it has called for an end to the "blind support" for Israel from the United States.
"We urge Trump to learn from (President Joe) Biden's mistakes," Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told news agency Reuters.
Netanyahu congratulates Trump on 'history's greatest comeback'
11:30 , Lydia Chantler-HicksIsraeli Prime Minister Benjami Netanyahu has congratulated Trump on his victory, writing on X: “Congratulations on history's greatest comeback!
“Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America,” he added.
“This is a huge victory!”
His message, which was addressed to Trump and his wife, Melania, was signed “in true friendship” from both Netanyahu and his wife, Sara.
Dear Donald and Melania Trump,
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) November 6, 2024
Congratulations on history’s greatest comeback!
Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America.
This is a huge victory!
In true friendship,… pic.twitter.com/B54NSo2BMA
France and Germany to hold urgent talks over Trump win
11:26 , Lydia Chantler-HicksFrance and Germany urgently coordinated their response to a return of Donald Trump as US President on Wednesday, with Emmanuel Macron saying on X Berlin and Paris would work for a united, stronger more sovereign Europe within "the new context".
In a separate message on X, Macron congratulated Trump and sought to play down previous differences.
France and Germany - the EU's two main powers - are in delicate positions politically, with French President Macron losing much of his power after defeats in elections earlier this year and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz struggling to keep his coalition together.
A hastily arranged bilateral between the countries' two defence ministers will take place in Paris later today, France's defence ministry said.
The two sides are likely to discuss strategy on Ukraine, NATO and EU defence strategy, officials said.
Abortion proposals win in seven states
11:17 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDespite major losses for Democrats in both the Senate and the White House, the party’s central campaign issue surrounding protecting reproductive rights fared much better across the country as abortion rights advocates won on measures in seven states.
The most recent to pass such a measure was Montana, where abortion rights advocates have pushed to enshrine abortion rights until foetal viability into the state constitution as a safeguard against future rollbacks. Though there’s no defined time frame, doctors say viability is sometime after 21 weeks.
In three other states — Florida, Nebraska and South Dakota — voters rejected measures that would have created a constitutional right to abortion.
Americans in London feel 'lucky to live this side of the pond'
11:08 , Lydia Chantler-HicksAmerican Democrats who call London home have said they feel “particularly lucky to live on this side of the pond" as Donald Trump stormed to election victory this morning.
Republicans and Democrats packed out the Passyunk Avenue bar in the shadow of the American Embassy in Nine Elms as it screened results throughout last night and into the early hours of this morning.
Among them was Harris voter David, originally from New York, who has lived in the UK for 17 years and now considers London “home”.
Asked what he would think of a Trump win, ahead of its being announced, he said: “I feel particularly lucky to live on this side of the pond.”
Read more reaction from Americans living in London here.
What will Trump presidency mean for US and rest of the world?
11:03 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump’s victory will have major implications for US trade and climate change policies, the war in Ukraine, Americans' taxes and immigration.
His tariff proposals could spark a fiercer trade war with China and US allies, while his pledges to reduce corporate taxes and implement a spate of new cuts could balloon US debt, economists say.
Trump has promised to launch a mass deportation campaign targeting immigrants who are in the country illegally.
He has also said he wants the authority to fire civil servants he views as disloyal. His opponents fear he will turn the Justice Department and other federal law enforcement agencies into political weapons to investigate perceived enemies.
A second Trump presidency could drive a bigger wedge between Democrats and Republicans on issues such as race, gender, what and how children are taught, and reproductive rights.
Voters' fears about economy believed a major driving force behind Trump victory
10:56US voters identified jobs and the economy as the country's most pressing problem, according to Reuters/Ipsos opinion polls.
Many Americans remained frustrated by higher prices even amid record-high stock markets, fast-growing wages and low unemployment. With the administration of President Joe Biden taking much of the blame, a majority of voters said they trusted Trump more than Harris to address the issue.
Hispanics, traditionally Democratic voters, and lower-income households hit hardest by inflation helped fuel Trump's election victory. His loyal base of rural, white and non-college educated voters again showed up in force.
Trump’s Democrat rival, Vice President Harris, fell short in her 15-week sprint as a candidate, failing to galvanise enough support to defeat Trump or to allay voters' concerns about the economy and immigration.
Trump's election marks historic moment for the US
10:44Donald Trump’s election as 47th President of the United States marks an extraordinary comeback for a former president who refused to accept defeat four years ago, sparked a violent insurrection at the US Capitol, was convicted of felony charges and survived two assassination attempts.
With a win in Wisconsin just now, Trump cleared the 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the presidency, comfortably beating his Democratic rival Kamala Harris.
The victory appears to validate his often unorthodox, bare-knuckle approach to politics. He attacked Harris in deeply personal - often misogynistic and racist - terms as he pushed an apocalyptic picture of a country overrun by violent migrants.
The coarse rhetoric, paired with an image of hypermasculinity, resonated with angry voters - particularly men - in a deeply polarised nation.
As president, he has vowed to pursue an agenda centered on dramatically reshaping the federal government and retribution against his perceived enemies.
He makes history as the oldest person, and the only convicted felon, to be voted in as president.
He will also be only the second president - the first in 132 years, when Grover Cleveland accomplished the feat - to serve non-consecutive terms in the White House.
BREAKING: Trump elected 47th president of the United States
10:35 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDonald Trump has won the key state of Wisconsin, and with it the entire election, according to projections.
Trump has beaten Vice President Kamala Harris in the critical battleground of Wisconsin, winning another 10 electoral college votes to Trump.
He has now secured 277 electoral votes. Just 270 were needed for a victory.
Former Tory MP Rory Stewart describes Trump victory as 'devastating body blow'
10:24 , Lydia Chantler-HicksRory Stewart, the former Conservative MP who now hosts popular podcast The Rest is Politics alongside Alastair Campbell has said: “It is heartbreaking that Trump is now the President.”
For the record - I was completely wrong about Kamala Harris. It is heartbreaking that Trump is now the President.
— Rory Stewart (@RoryStewartUK) November 6, 2024
Mr Stewart previously predicted Kamala Harris would win “comfortably”, but reviewing that prediction this morning he said on his podcast: “I think I was wrong because I’m an optimist.”
"Tonight is a very, very devastating body blow,” he continued. “This is 25 per cent of the global economy. This is the world’s largest, oldest, most mature democracy that has just voted for a multiple convicted felon.”
Just Stop Oil paint US embassy in London orange
10:17 , Lydia Chantler-HicksJust Stop Oil supporters have painted the US embassy building in London in orange paint, as Donald Trump looks set to become the 47th president of the US.
The environmental activist group say they are demanding governments work together to “end the extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030”.
A JSO pokesperson said: “The only real winner of today’s election is the corporate power that controls the major parties in both the US and UK.
“Regardless of who sits in the White House, corporations and billionaires will ensure that the interests of the fossil fuel industry will continue to be prioritised over the wellbeing of ordinary people.
“It is only through people coming together to disrupt ‘business as usual’ that humanity will stand any chance of minimising the effects of climate breakdown, and the resulting social collapse that is already under way.”
New Tory leader Kemi Badenoch congratulates Trump
10:14Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch congratulated Donald Trump on his “historic election victory”.
“The world faces many serious challenges and I look forward to our two countries working together to confront them,” she said.
In pictures: The world watches on as Trump victory looks certain
10:13 , Lydia Chantler-Hicks
Nigel Farage hails 'the most incredible political comeback of our lifetime”.
10:01 , Lydia Chantler-HicksNigel Farage has hailed Trump’s expected return to the White House as “the most incredible political comeback of our lifetime”.
“Donald Trump is a genuine friend of the United Kingdom, wrote Reform UK leader and Clacton MP Mr Farage, on X.
Donald Trump is a genuine friend of the United Kingdom.
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) November 6, 2024
Keir Starmer must roll out the red carpet for the 47th President of the USA.
This is a huge opportunity to be grasped. pic.twitter.com/Wza4UgzGzh
He urged Sir Keir Starmer to “roll out the red carpet for the 47th President of the USA”.
“This is a huge opportunity to be grasped,” he added.
Mr Farage has been in the US in recent days to support Trump.
He’s done it again. The most incredible political comeback of our lifetime. pic.twitter.com/xJEpcSqdvI
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) November 6, 2024
Trump gave him a special shout-out at one of his final rallies, describing Mr Farage as his “friend”.
Mr Farage was also pictured at the Republican watch party in West Palm Beach, Florida, where Trump delivered his victory speech early this morning.
Last night, he was among guests including billionaire X owner Elon Musk who attended a party at Trump’s Palm Beach residence, Mar-a-Lago. Mr Farage told GB News the mood there was “joyous”.
Scotland's First Minister congratulates Trump
09:52 , Lydia Chantler-HicksScotland’s First Minister John Swinney has congratulated Donald Trump.
In a post on X he wrote: “Congratulations to President-elect Trump on his election.
“Scotland and the USA share many social, cultural and economic links.
“In that relationship, we will stand fast in support of our values of fairness, democracy and equality – ideals that America was built upon.”
No plans for Putin to congratulate Trump, says Kremlin, as Russia-US relationship at historic low
09:47 , Lydia Chantler-HicksMessages of congratulations for Donald Trump have been pouring in from world leaders this morning.
But Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he was not aware of any plans by Vladimir Putin to congratulate Trump on his election victory, and people should not forget that the United States was an unfriendly country towards Russia.
Moscow is watching closely and analysing statements made by American politicians about Russia, Mr Peskov told reporters.
Mr Peskov said relations between the two countries were at a historic low, and it was practically impossible for them to get worse.
He said the US was capable of changing the trajectory of its foreign policy, but "we'll see in January", when Trump takes office, if that happens.
How do the votes currently stand?
09:41 , Lydia Chantler-HicksThough the election isn’t over yet, Donald Trump has claimed a “magnificent victory for the American people” and it is looking very likely that he will win.
Trump leads with a majority of 267 electoral votes compared to Harris’ 224 - and at least 270 are needed to win the election. Currently, the final results in Nevada, Arizona, Alaska, Wisconsin and Michigan are yet to be confirmed.
Although Trump hasn’t officially reached 270 electoral votes, it appears likely that he will win the election and return for a second term as president, becoming the second president in history to serve non-consecutive terms after Grover Cleveland in the 1800s.
According to the Associated Press, as it stands Trump is also leading the popular vote, scoring over 69 million votes over Harris, whose votes sit at just under 64 million.
Read more here.
Trump victory shows 'progress is not inevitable', says Sadiq Khan in message to 'fearful' Londoners
09:33 , 'London will always be for everyone' assures Sadiq KhanMayor Sadiq Khan has assured “fearful” Londoners that the capital “will always be for everyone” as he said Trump’s likely victory shows “progress is not inevitable”.
Mr Khan, who had a long-running row with Donald Trump during his first term in the White House, said: "I know that many Londoners will be anxious about the outcome of the US presidential election.
"Many will be fearful about what it will mean for democracy and for women's rights, or how the result impacts the situation in the Middle East or the fate of Ukraine. Others will be worried about the future of Nato or tackling the climate crisis."
He said "London is - and will always be - for everyone" and "we will always be pro-women, pro-diversity, pro-climate and pro-human rights".
"The lesson of today is that progress is not inevitable,” he added.
"But asserting our progressive values is more important than ever - re-committing to building a world where racism and hatred is rejected, the fundamental rights of women and girls are upheld, and where we continue to tackle the crisis of climate change head on."
What did Trump say in his victory speech?
09:13Trump declared he has won a "magnificent victory for the American people", as he addressed a campaign party in Florida in the early hours of this morning.
As he looked on track to return to the White House as 47th President of the United States, Mr Trump, 78, told jubilant supporters that "America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate".
He said he would not let his backers down and that it is "time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us".
Mr Trump pledged to "fight" for "every citizen" and promised the "golden age of America".
He said: "Every single day I will be fighting for you with every breath in my body.
"I will not rest until we have delivered the strong, safe and prosperous America that our children deserve, and that you deserve."
He added: "This is a magnificent victory for the American people that will allow us to make America great again."
Before he left the stage in Florida, Mr Trump vowed to not let his supporters down, and told them "It's time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us. It's time to unite."
He added: "Success is going to bring us together and we are going to start by all putting America first. We have to fix it because together we can truly make America great again for all Americans.
"So I want to just tell you what a great honour this is. I want to thank you. I will not let you down.
"America's future will be bigger, better, bolder, richer, safer and stronger than it has ever been before."
European Commission president says she’s looking forward to working with Trump
09:00 , Lydia Chantler-HicksThe European Union’s top official says she’s looking forward to working with Trump again as the former president is on the cusp of victory in the US presidential race.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU and US “are more than just allies. We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens.”
“Let us work together on a transatlantic partnership that continues to deliver for our citizens,” she said in a statement. “Millions of jobs and billions in trade and investment on each side of the Atlantic depend on the dynamism and stability of our economic relationship.”
Turkey's Erdogan congratulates 'friend' Donald Trump
08:58 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTurkey’s President Erdogan has congratulated his “friend” Donald Trump on his expected win.
“In this new period that will begin with the elections of the American people, I hope that Turkey-US relations will strengthen, that regional and global crises and wars, especially the Palestinian issue and the Russia-Ukraine war, will come to an end; I believe that more efforts will be made for a more just world,” wrote Erdogan on X, in Turkish.
“I hope that the elections will be beneficial for our friendly and allied people in the United States and for all of humanity.”
Economy believed to be huge factor in Trump's expected win
08:53What will win the election for Trump? Quite simply: the economy, writes The Standard’s deputy political editor, Jitendra Joshi.
In exit polls, 45% of US voters nationwide said their family's financial situation was worse off today than it was four years ago.
That compares to only 20% who felt worse off after the 2020 election, following Donald Trump’s first term. Just 24% said they were better off today than after four years of Democratic rule under Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, down from 41% in 2020.
Trump exploited the mood of national pessimism ruthlessly, writes Jitendra Joshi.
Read his full explainer here.
David Lammy congratulates Trump as he hails 'special relationship' between UK and US
08:43 , Lydia Chantler-HicksForeign Secretary David Lammy has congratulated Trump.
“The UK has no greater friend than the US, with the special relationship being cherished on both sides of the Atlantic for more than 80 years,” he wrote on X.
“We look forward to working with you and @JDVance in the years ahead.”
Lammy has previously been a vocal critic of Donald Trump, but he and Sir Keir Starmer have reportedly been been “working hard” recently to build a positive relationship with Trump and his team.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting was asked on Good Morning Britain yesterday about a 2017 tweet in which Mr Lammy described Trump as “an “odious, sad, little man”.
Mr Streeting responded: “The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary have been working hard to build a relationship with President Trump and his team, so that in the event that he is elected as the next president of the United States, we start with the strong working relationship which is in our national interest and in the interests of the United States as well.”
Nato leader 'looks forward' to working with Trump
08:37 , Lydia Chantler-HicksNato Secretary-General Mark Rutte says he looks forward to working with Trump “to advance peace through strength” as the former president closes in on the 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House.
“We face a growing number of challenges globally, from a more aggressive Russia, to terrorism, to strategic competition with China, as well the increasing alignment of China, Russia, North Korea and Iran,” Mr Rutte said on X.
I just congratulated @realDonaldTrump on his election as President of the United States. His leadership will again be key to keeping our Alliance strong. I look forward to working with him again to advance peace through strength through #NATO.
— Mark Rutte (@SecGenNATO) November 6, 2024
“Working together through Nato helps to deter aggression, protect our collective security and support our economies,” he added.
Mr Rutte also praised Trump for his work during his first term to persuade US allies in Nato to ramp up defence spending.
He noted that around two-thirds of the 32 Nato allies are due to meet the organisation’s main defence spending target this year.
Minnesota projected for Harris
08:34 , Lydia Chantler-HicksA Harris win has been projected for Minnesota by several news outlets.
A win there would give the Democrat candidate 10 more electoral votes.
Zelensky says he hopes Trump will help 'bring just peace in Ukraine closer'
08:30 , Lydia Chantler-HicksUkraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has joined world leaders including Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron, as he congratulated Donald Trump on his "impressive" victory.
"I appreciate President Trump’s commitment to the 'peace through strength' approach in global affairs,” wrote Zelensky on X.
Congratulations to @realDonaldTrump on his impressive election victory!
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 6, 2024
I recall our great meeting with President Trump back in September, when we discussed in detail the Ukraine-U.S. strategic partnership, the Victory Plan, and ways to put an end to Russian aggression against…
“This is exactly the principle that can practically bring just peace in Ukraine closer. I am hopeful that we will put it into action together.
“We look forward to an era of a strong United States of America under President Trump’s decisive leadership. We rely on continued strong bipartisan support for Ukraine in the United States.”
Sir Keir Starmer congratulates Trump
08:28 , Lydia Chantler-HicksSir Keir Starmer is the latest world leader to congratulate Donald Trump on his expected election victory.
“Congratulations President-elect @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory,” said Starmer on X.
Congratulations President-elect @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) November 6, 2024
I look forward to working with you in the years ahead. pic.twitter.com/QYHLd4k4EG
"I look forward to working with you in the years ahead.
"I know that the UK-US special relationship will continue to prosper on both sides of the Atlantic for years to come."
'God spared my life for a reason' said Trump in speech
08:23In his ‘victory’ speech in West Palm Beach, Florida, earlier, Donald Trump referred to the assassination attempt he survived in July.
“Many people have told me that God spared my life for a reason", he told supporters.
"And that reason was to save our country and to restore America to greatness, and now we are going to fulfil that mission together,” he added.
"We're going to fulfil that mission."
A gunman attempted to assassinate Mr Trump during his speech at an outdoor campaign rally in Pennsylvania in July. The former president suffered an injury to his ear and his attacker was shot dead.
French president Macron congratulates Trump
08:17 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump has not yet been officially named winner of the election, but his victory is looking increasingly likely - with many surprised by how early the result looks likely to be declared.
French President Emmanuel Macron has wasted no time in congratulating Trump in a post on X, as he named him “President” and said he is “ready to work together”.
Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump. Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) November 6, 2024
Trump three electoral votes away from victory
08:13 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDonald Trump is now just one state away from victory.
The Republican candidate has so far secured 267 out of the 270 electoral votes required to win the presidency, with Vice President Harris on 224 votes.
Trump needs just three electoral votes to win, and even the smallest states have three electoral votes.
Watch: Donald Trump declares victory in jubilant speech
08:08 , Lydia Chantler-HicksDonald Trump victory speech ends
08:05 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump’s victory speech has now ended.
Village People hit YMCA - an anthem of the Trump campaign - played as he and his family, and his team including vice presidential candidate JD Vance filed out.
It's time to put past behind us and unite, says Trump
08:01Concluding his speech, Trump said: “It’s time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us. It’s time to unite, and we’re going to try. We have to try. Success will bring us together.
“We have to put our country first,” he added. “Because together we can truly make America great again for all Americans.”
He ended by saying: “God bless you, and God bless America. Thank you very much.”
Trump pledges to 'govern by a simple motto'
07:59Trump has described being US president as “the most important job in the world”.
Claiming victory - though that has not officially been declared - he described winning a second term as “a great honour”
“Just as I did in my first term...I will govern by a simple motto: promises made, promises kept,” he said.
“Nothing will stop me keeping my word to you, the people
“We will make America safe, strong, prosperous, powerful and free again.”
Trump hails today as 'the day Americans regained control of their country'
07:54 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump is still thanking various members of his team, and big names who have come out in support of him during his election campaign. He’s now turned to focus on the voters that backed him.
“I want to thank the millions of hard-working Americans across the nation who have always been the heart and soul of this movement,” he said.
“We’ve been through so much together, and today you showed up in record numbers to deliver a victory like, really, probably like no other.
“This was something special, and we’re going to pay you back,” he said. “We’re going to do the best job, and we’re going to turn it around.
“It’s got to be turned around fast. We’re going to do it so many ways.
“This will forever be remembered as the day the American people regained control of their country.
“This was a great day for democracy and for freedom.”
Belarusian president calls Trump winner of election
07:48 , Lydia Chantler-HicksBelarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called Donald Trump the winner of the US presidential election, Russian state-run agency RIA has said.
Trump describes Elon Musk as 'new star'
07:47 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump has paid tribute to billionaire and X owner Elon Musk, a staunch supporter of his.
“He’s a special guy, he’s a super genius,” said Trump, after giving a long account of conversations he has had with Musk in recent days.
Pictured: Trump delivers 'victory' speech in West Palm Beach, Florida
07:40
Trump embraces wife as he thanks family
07:37 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump has thanked his wife Melania and his “amazing” children and extended family, including his parents-in-law for their support.
Chants of 'USA' as Trump hails 'magnificent victory for American people'
07:35 , Lydia Chantler-Hicks“I will fight for you, for your family, for your future,” Trump has told cheering crowds, as he appears certain of his victory.
“Every single day I will be fighting for you, and with every breath in my body
“I will not stop until I deliver the strong, safe and prosperous country that your children deserve, and that you deserve.
“This is a magnificent victory for the American people, that will allow us to make America great again.”
His words were met with loud chants of “USA, USA, USA”.
Trump declares 'victory' to jubilant crowds
07:32 , Lydia Chantler-Hicks“We made history for a reason tonight,” said Trump. “We overcame obstacles that nobody thought was possible
“Look what happened. Is this crazy?
“It’s a political victory that our country has never seen before - nothing like this.”
'This was the greatest political movement of all time' says Trump as he vows to 'heal' US
07:30“This is a movement like nobody’s seen before, and frankly this was I believe the greatest political movement of all time,” said Donald Trump as he began his speech.
“There’s never been anything like this in this country and maybe beyond, and now it’s going to reach a new level of importance because we’re going to help our country heal.”
Trump arrives on stage at Florida watch party with family and JD Vance
07:26Donald Trump has just arrived on stage at the Palm Beach Convention Centre, a short drive from his Mar-a-Lago residence, accompanied by a large crowd including his wife Melania, his children, vice presidential candidate JD Vance, Vance’s wife, campaign staff.
Rousing patriotic anthem God Bless the USA played as they entered, and stood filling the stage.
There’s a euphoric atmosphere among the large crowds of his supporters - a sea of ‘make America great again’ caps - who cheered and clapped wildly as he arrived.
Jubilant celebration in Florida as Fox predicts Trump will win election
07:12 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump supporters celebrated as Fox News projected the Republican candidate has won the US presidency, defeating Democrat Kamala Harris and capping a stunning political comeback four years after he left the White House.
Other media outlets have yet to call the race.
In West Palm Beach, Florida, where Trump is expected to speak to his supporters at a convention centre, the crowd cheered and chanted, "USA! USA! USA!" when Fox News declared him the winner a short while ago.
Trump has already won the swing states of North Carolina and Georgia and holds leads in several others, according to Edison Research. He has been projected a win in Pennsylvania, the biggest battleground state, by several outlets.
Trump projected to win in Pennsylvania
07:06Donald Trump has won Pennsylvania - the biggest battleground state - according to projections.
Edison Research, Sky News, and Fox News are among those projecting a Trump win there.
As we’ve just been reporting, Fox News is also the first to call the overall election result. It has predicted a victory for Donald Trump.
Fox News projects overall Trump win
06:55Fox News has projected Donald Trump the winner of the US presidential election.
Fox News projects Trump win in Pennsylvania
06:45Fox News is projecting a Trump victory in the battleground of Pennsylvania.
Trump supporters have been celebrating the pro-Republican news outlet’s projection wildly, but it’s important to note that no other outlets have made projections for Pennsylvania yet with many feeling it’s still too early to call.
Euphoric atmosphere at Trump watch party
06:43As results continue to trickle in, Trump supporters gathered at his election night watch party in Palm Beach have been hugging one another, making calls, jumping up and down, and throwing their MAGA hats in the air at every chance they’ve had to celebrate.
At another watch party in the key swing state of Pennsylvania, there is a party atmosphere. The Village People’s YMCA is blasting over a speaker and supporters are clapping and dancing.
Trump expected to speak at watch party shortly
06:36For those who are just joining us - good morning.
We are currently waiting for Donald Trump to arrive at the Palm Beach Convention Centre, where he’s due to address a large crowd of his supporters, as counts show he has taken an early lead in the race for presidency.
It’s currently around 1.35am in Florida.
Harris is not expected to give a public address tonight She is understood to have gone home and is not due to speak until later on Tuesday.
Nevada polls closed nearly 3 hours late due to high voter turnout
06:31Polls closed in the key battleground Nevada nearly three hours late after voters waited in long lines to cast ballots, the state’s top election official said.
Polls had been scheduled to close at 7pm, but state law allows anyone in line at that time to cast a ballot.
Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar acknowledged Nevada’s position as an electoral battleground and said he was proud of reports of high voter turnout.
RFK arrives at Palm Beach watch party
06:20 , Lydia Chantler-HicksFormer presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy has arrived at the Palm Beach Convention Centre watch party, entering and walking briskly as he made his way near the stage among crowds of Trump supporters.
Republicans celebrate early turnout among Black and Hispanic voters
06:14Preliminary AP VoteCast data has suggested a shift among Black and Latino voters, who appeared slightly less likely to support Harris than they were to back Biden four years ago.
About eight in 10 Black voters backed Harris, down from the roughly nine in 10 who backed Biden.
More than half of Hispanic voters supported Harris, but that was down slightly from the roughly six in 10 who backed Biden in 2020. Trump’s support among those groups appeared to rise slightly compared to 2020.
Republican Senator Marco Rubio told AP at Trump’s election watch party in West Palm Beach, Florida, that he’s excited for the exit polling in states like Pennsylvania and Georgia, where Republicans are already seeing over-performance compared to this time in the election in 2020.
“I’m just really excited not just because I think it’s going to be a victory but about how we won,” he said.
Sombre mood at Democratic watch party in London
06:10There was a sombre mood at a gathering of Democratic Party supporters in London early this morning, as concern grew over Donald Trump's lead.
Hundreds of UK-based Democrats had gathered at a central London bar from 7pm yesterday to support Kamala Harris.
An initially jovial atmosphere turned to anxiety, as attendees stared at television screens and desperately refreshed their phones for the latest updates on the election.
By 4.30am, many of those at the Democrats Abroad UK event looked despondent, with some appearing close to tears as Ms Harris's prospects of victory narrowed.
Earlier in the morning, the venue went virtually silent as a television network showed Donald Trump narrowly ahead in swing states.
Some Democrats held their head in their hands as concern spread that Ms Harris was not doing well enough in the vital battleground states.
There were shouts of "No, that can't be right" as projections on CNN showed Mr Trump strongly ahead among Latino voters in Michigan.
The number of attendees dropped throughout the night as most headed home to sleep before most of the swing states were called.
Trump wins swing state Georgia
06:05 , Lydia Chantler-HicksRepublican presidential candidate Donald Trump has won in the swing state of Georgia.
It’s his second swing state victory of the evening, after he earlier won North Carolina.
Five other key battlegrounds - Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin - are yet to be declared.
Trump is ahead in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.
Donald Trump due to address Palm Beach watch party shortly
06:02 , Lydia Chantler-HicksTrump supporters are eagerly awaiting Trump’s arrival at a watch party at Palm Beach Convention Centre in Palm Beach, Florida, where he’s expected to address the audience shortly.
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