Joe Biden is projected to win the election and become the 46th President of the United States.
After a nail-biting race, the Democratic candidate gained an unbeatable lead in Pennsylvania, taking its 20 Electoral College votes and past the 270 needed to win the White House.
Kamala Harris will now become the first female US Vice-President in history.
Mr Biden said: "America, I’m honored that you have chosen me to lead our great country.
"The work ahead of us will be hard, but I promise you this: I will be a President for all Americans — whether you voted for me or not.
"I will keep the faith that you have placed in me."
America, I’m honored that you have chosen me to lead our great country.
The work ahead of us will be hard, but I promise you this: I will be a President for all Americans — whether you voted for me or not.
I will keep the faith that you have placed in me. pic.twitter.com/moA9qhmjn8— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) November 7, 2020
The outcome makes Donald Trump the first one-term president since 1992, when George HW Bush failed to clinch four more years.
In a written statement released by his campaign, Mr Trump accused his opponent of "rushing to falsely pose as the winner".
He said: "Beginning Monday, our campaign will start prosecuting our case in court to ensure election laws are fully upheld and the rightful winner is seated.
"I will not rest until the American People have the honest vote count they deserve and that Democracy demands."
Earlier, Mr Biden, who will be the oldest sitting president ever, urged supporters to "keep the faith" and wait until all votes had been counted.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin was one of the first to congratulate Mr Biden, saying that he has been "a true friend of this nation throughout his life".
Mr Martin added: "I look forward to working with him in the years ahead. I also look forward to welcoming him back home when the circumstances allow!"
I want to congratulate the new President Elect of the USA @JoeBiden Joe Biden has been a true friend of this nation throughout his life and I look forward to working with him in the years ahead. I also look forward to welcoming him back home when the circumstances allow! 🇮🇪 🇺🇸
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) November 7, 2020
Additional reporting by IRN
Main image: Joe Biden speaking yesterday. Credit: AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster
