Former US President George W Bush, a Republican, said on Sunday he has spoken to President-elect Joe Biden, a Democrat, to congratulate him on his victory.
In a statement, Bush said Americans can have confidence the US election was "fundamentally fair, its integrity will be upheld, and its outcome is clear".
"Though we have political differences I know Joe Biden to be a good man, who has won his opportunity to lead and unify our country," Bush said.
He also called and spoke with soon-to-be Vice President Kamala Harris and congratulated her on the historic result. Harris is the first woman and first person of colour to be elected to vice president.
He added President Donald Trump has the right to request recounts and pursue legal challenges. Bush congratulated Trump on a "hard-fought campaign".
"He earned the votes of more than 70 million Americans - an extraordinary political achievement.
"They have spoken and their voices will continue to be heard through elected Republicans at every level of government."
Reuters / Newshub.
