Donald Trump wins presidential election but must wait until January to take office

Donald Trump has won the presidential election against Kamala Harris but will not take office until January 20, 2025. This is due to a transition period established by the U.S. Constitution, which allows time for the new administration to prepare. Historically, the U.S. had longer transition periods, with the inauguration originally set for March 4. The 20th Amendment, adopted in 1933, moved the date to January 20 to reduce the lengthy "lame-duck" period between elections and the start of a new presidency. The transition period allows the president-elect to assemble a team and develop policies. Official results from the Electoral College, which meets on December 17, will confirm Trump as the next president.