Donald Trump was elected the 45th President of the United States on Tuesday, defeating Hillary Clinton in a historical presidential election.
Addressing his supporters at the New York Hilton in Midtown Manhattan after his win was officially declared, Trump said his election mean it was “time for America to bind the wounds of division.”
“To all Republicans and Democrats and Independents across this nation, I say it is time for us to come together as one united people,” he said. “I pledge to every citizen of our land that I will be president for all Americans and this is so important to me.”
Trump called his run an “incredible and great movement” that comprised Americans of different races, backgrounds and beliefs. He said he wanted to work together to “rebuild” the nation, saying the country has “tremendous potential.”
“Every single American will have the opportunity to realize his or her fullest potential,” he said. “The forgotten men and women of our country will be forgotten no longer.”
Trump touched on some of his plans for the U.S., saying the country would “have the strongest economy anywhere in the world.”
“At the same time we will get along with all other nations,” he said. “America will no longer settle for anything less than the best.”
Trump noted that the contentious election was difficult.
“This was tough. This was tough,” he said. “This political stuff is nasty and it’s tough.”
He concluded his address by promising Americans they would be “so proud” of their president.
“I can only say that while the campaign is over, our work on this movement is now really just beginning – we’re going to get to work immediately for the American people and we’re going to be doing a job that hopefully you’ll be so proud of your president,” he said. “I love this country.”
