Former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton told Democrats to "move forward with courage, confidence and optimism" in a rare post-election message released on Friday.

Clinton thanked members of the party for backing her in the election, describing the nomination as "the honor of a lifetime," but focused on the future goals of the party currently reeling from the election results and holding limited power in Washington.

She addressed the anti-Trump protests and town hall meetings that have cropped up in recent weeks as an opportunity for the party to attract new supporters.

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"Everywhere people are marching, protesting, tweeting, speaking out and working for an America that's hopeful, inclusive and big-hearted," Clinton said.

She implored party members to stay engaged and reach out to voters to win the coming midterm elections.

"We as Democrats must move forward with courage, confidence and optimism, and stay focused on the elections we must win this year and next," she said. "Let resistance plus persistence equal progress for our party and our country."

She also directly thanked both Barack and Michelle Obama for their leadership.

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"As long as we stand together and work together -- with respect for our differences, strength in our convictions and love for our country -- our best days are still ahead," she added. "So keep fighting and keep the faith and I'll be right with you every step of the way. God bless you and God bless America."

The video, shared by the Democratic Party, comes as the Democratic National Committee prepares to elect its new leader this weekend.

Top candidates for the position include former Obama labor secretary Tom Perez and Rep. Keith Ellison, who would be the party's first Muslim leader if elected. Sally Boynton Brown, Pete Buttigieg, Jehmu Greene, Sam Ronan and Peter Peckarsky are also in the running.

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