'Kamala gave her whole heart': Biden addresses nation, assures 'peaceful and orderly transition' after Trump victory

US President Joe Biden on Thursday addressed the nation for the first time since Donald Trump 's election victory against Vice President Kamala Harris , assuring Americans of a "peaceful and orderly transition" to Trump's administration.

In his White House remarks, Biden reaffirmed the integrity of the US electoral prrocess, pointing out its transparency and fairness. He commended Harris and her team;s dedication throughout the campaign, calling on citizens to unite as "fellow Americans" and move forward together. "On January 20th, we’ll have a peaceful transfer of power here in America," Biden said, promising to uphold his presidential duties until the transition.

Here are the top quotes from US President Biden's address:

• "For over 200 years, America has carried on the greatest experiment in self-government in the history of the world."

• "The people vote and choose their own leaders, and they do it peacefully. And we're in a democracy. The will of the people always prevails."

• "Yesterday, I spoke with President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his victory, and I assured him that I would direct my entire administration to work with his team to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition. That's what the American people deserve."

• "Yesterday, I also spoke with Vice President Harris. She's been a partner and a public servant."

• "She gave her whole heart and effort, and she and her entire team should be proud of the campaign they ran."

• "Campaigns are contests of competing visions. The country chooses one or the other. We accept the choice the country made."

• "You can't love your country only when you win. You can't love your neighbor only when you agree. Something I hope we can do. No matter who you voted for, who see each other not as adversaries, but as fellow Americans. Bring down the temperature."

• "I also hope we can lay to rest the question about the integrity of the American electoral system. It is honest, it is fair, and it is transparent, and it can be trusted, win or lose."

• "I will do my duty as president. I fulfill my oath and I will honor the Constitution. On January 20th, we'll have a peaceful transfer of power here in America."

• "I know it's a difficult time. You're hurting. I hear you and I see you. But don't forget. Don't forget all that we accomplished. It's been a historic presidency. Not because I'm president. Because what we've done, what you've done."

• "Setbacks are unavoidable. Giving up is unforgiveable."