Donald Trump has previously said he would contest the results. If his efforts to do so are unsuccessful, the pressure on him to publicly concede defeat will mount. But does he have to?
The concession phone call from a losing candidate to the victor is a respected tradition of American politics. It is by no means obligatory, however.
In 2018, for instance, Democratic governor candidate Stacey Abrams claimed voter fraud and intimidation and never conceded to Brian Kemp, her Republican opponent.
That's never happened in a modern presidential race, however. But as in Georgia, as long as election results are legally processed and certified, the machinery of government will grind on, regardless of what Trump may do.
While Trump doesn't have to concede, or even put on a good face and attend Biden's inauguration, he does have some legal obligations. He must authorise his administration to make the logistical preparations for Biden's team to take over. That is something, according to Trump officials, the president has already done.
Donald Trump ascended to the presidency as an unconventional candidate unafraid to break long-established norms and traditions. If he so desires, he could exit the office that way, as well.
It's written in the US Constitution that the new term of office begins on 20 January at noon. So expect to see Joe Biden and Kamala Harris inaugurated on 20 January 2021, even if Trump refuses to turn up.
Latest Stories
-
Access Bank Ghana Plc records commendable financial growth in quarter one, 2024
1 hour -
GFA DC charges Bashir Hayford over alleged misconduct in Bechem Utd game
1 hour -
MTN FA Cup: Dreams FC beat Soccer Intellectuals to make semis
2 hours -
Ayorkor Botchwey champions transformative investment, trade agenda
2 hours -
KNUST, University of Rwanda share experiences in implementation of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
3 hours -
Top 10 most visited tourist sites in Ghana 2023
3 hours -
Cecilia Dapaah case: I will reopen investigation into alleged acts of corruption – Mahama
3 hours -
GRA boss charges customs officers to be professional ahead of 2024 general elections
4 hours -
NPP thanks stakeholders for successful Ejisu by-election
4 hours -
Bawumia promises to involve chiefs in licensing miners if elected President
4 hours -
Koda should have visited the pastor to avert the prophecy – Ajagurajah
4 hours -
Emotional support alligator taken and released in swamp
4 hours -
A mate is a mate, Bawumia can’t be in the driver’s seat – NDC Communicator
4 hours -
Over 400 million Google accounts have used passkeys, but our passwordless future remains elusive
4 hours -
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park surpasses Aburi Gardens as most visited site in 2023 – GTA
4 hours