US President George W. Bush on Wednesday told Democratic challenger John Kerry that he was "very gracious" after the senator conceded defeat in 2004 presidential race, White House spokesman Scott McClellan said.

Reached by telephone in the White House Oval Office at approximately 11:00 am (1600 GMT), Bush told Kerry: "I think you were an admirable, worthy opponent," McClellan told reporters.

Bush was to make remarks at 3:00 pm (2000 GMT) on his victory and his second-term agenda, said McClellan.