A power sweep

Today there are tears of disappoinment, sorrow and loss. For others there are tears of joy and hope. The challenge to unite this country will face our President in the days, months and years to come. It is a challenge that will also face each and every one of us, for we live here together in this nation.

Senator Kerry said in his concession speech earlier today, “Today I hope we can begin the healing…..In an American election there are no loosers….I believe what we started in this campaign will not end here.” These words echoed those of John Edwards who implored his listeners, “You can be disappointed, but don’t walk away…..This fight has just begun.”

Despite a valiant effort to turn out record numbers of votes from Democratic supporters, the Republican Party has claimed a victory not only for the presidency of the United States, but also in both the House of Representatives and in the Senate. The GOP will have a much easier road ahead as they pursue the passage of their agenda through Congress. With Tom Daschle’s senatorial loss in South Dakota, as well as others, the GOP has taken a 55-45 lead in the Senate, as well as adding to their lead in the House of Representatives. The Republican leadership believes they have received a mandate. President Bush said in his celebration speech just a short time ago,”America has spoken…..When we come together and work together there is no limit to what America can do.”

Republicans face the question of how to lead this country without further alienating and enraging the millions of Americans who feel their voice has gone unheaded. Meanwhile, the Democrats face perhaps a more difficult task—to hold their heads high, continue to fight for the issues they treasure in heart and mind and prepare the grounds for success in the next elections.