More Republicans are starting to publicly acknowledge that former Vice President Joe Biden won the election and that President Donald Trump will not serve another four years in the White House.
However, the president continues to insist that he won the election.
Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-Mich.), who did not run for re-election this year, is now telling Trump he should accept defeat and allow the transition process to begin.
In a tweet on Monday, he said, “I will keep trying this… [Donald Trump] legal challenges alleging fraud have failed due to lack of evidence. Recounts may change numbers slightly – not enough to change the outcome.”
“The good of this nation requires an effective transition. Let’s just deal with it,” he added.
I will keep trying this…@realDonaldTrump legal challenges alleging fraud have failed due to lack of evidence. Recounts may change numbers slightly – not enough to change the outcome. The good of this nation requires an effective transition. Let’s just deal with it.
— Paul Mitchell (@RepPaulMitchell) November 16, 2020
And in an interview on CNN on Tuesday, Mitchell was asked if Trump’s refusal to concede the election was causing the country harm. He said, “I think it’s necessary to begin a transition.”
He cited the variety of issues facing America and said regardless of the outcome of the election, it would be wise to ensure Biden is prepared to assume the office.
“Given the complexity, we need to start a process a transition to a new administration. What’s the worst that can happen? If by some miracle the president prevails, then we went through the effort for nothing,” he said.
He added, “But we need to move forward because the American people expect us to govern.”
“I think we need to move on. I think the people have spoken, we have President-elect Biden, and we need to accept that.”
Watch the video below:
GOP Rep. Paul Mitchell say President Trump needs to accept the election results.
— CNN Newsroom (@CNNnewsroom) November 17, 2020
“I think we need to move on. I think the people have spoken, we have President-elect Biden and we need to accept that.” pic.twitter.com/JZS59lnhQL
He added that legal challenges filed by Trump’s campaign and recounts appear unlikely to change the outcome of the election.
He also suggested that some Republican officials have not spoken out to urge Trump to concede because they believe “it will resolve itself.” However, he noted that other Republicans have become more willing to speak out.
Still, he said it is important that there is not a “haphazard transition.”
On Monday, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) joined the small chorus of Senate Republicans who have publicly acknowledged Biden as the winner of the election, as IJR reported.
