US elections: Europe must step up as standard-bearer for liberal democracy

A cloud of uncertainty hangs today over EU-US relations, support for Ukraine, and international stability. Following the US elections, Europe must step up as the standard-bearer for liberal democracy and the champion of international justice, the Party of European Socialists (PES) says as it reaffirms its commitment to a strong relationship with US progressives.

PES President Stefan Löfven said:

"Like millions of Americans, Europeans are waking up to a more uncertain world. To those in the US who are scared about what the future holds, we send a message of solidarity. As progressives, we will reorganise, rebuild and refocus. Because the fight for a better future continues, despite the result of this election. We will continue to stand with progressive forces in the US, strengthening our relationship by building on our common values. We will continue fighting to defend the rights and freedoms of women, migrants and all Americans, regardless of their background.

"The world's despots, dictators and illiberal agitators might be celebrating this result. But for us, it reaffirms that Europe must step up as the standard-bearer for liberal democracy and the champion for international justice. From support for Ukraine, to international climate action, and partnerships around the world, progressives will never abandon our work for a more just world. The coming years will be vital."

A PES delegation - led by PES Deputy Secretaries General Saar van Bueren and Yonnec Polet and PES Vice-President Kati Piri -was present in the US in the closing days of the campaign to follow the race and hold political meetings with key progressive actors.

Initial election results indicate that Republican candidate and former President, Donald Trump, has secured over 51% of the popular vote, winning several battleground states. With 277 electoral college votes already secured, he will become the next US president.

Alongside the presidential elections, US voters also elected a new Congress. With results still coming in, the election for the House of Representatives remains on a knife-edge, with Republicans up one seat. In the Senate, Republicans have taken control from Democrats gaining three seats so far.