Hillary Clinton has been forced to admit defeat.
A few hours after Donald Trump was elected President of the United States in an upset nearly no pollster saw coming, the Democratic nominee for this same office stood on stage in New York City and apologized.
“I’m sorry,” she told her millions of supporters around the country.
After being introduced by running mate Tim Kaine, Clinton urged Democrats to move forward, telling those who voted for her to channel any disillusion over the result into helpful action.
She also pushed for a peaceful transition of power, despite her and Trump having run such a contentious campaign against each other.
“I count my blessings every single day that I am an American,” she said.
“And I believe that if we stand together and work together with strength of our convictions, our best days are still ahead of us. Because you know I believe we are stronger together and we will go further together. And you should never, ever regret fighting for that.”
Still, Clinton acknowledged that “our nation is more deeply divided than we thought,” yet added:
“I still believe in America, and I always will.”
She may need to convince her famous supporters of that belief…
“This loss hurts – but please never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it,” she continued.
“Let us have faith in each other. Let us not grow weary. Let us not lose heart. For there are more seasons to come and more work to do.”
Clinton is on track to win the popular vote, meaning more folks out there did NOT vote for Trump than DID vote for Trump.
There will be a lot of fence-mending needed on both sides of the aisle.
Clinton therefore urged her voters to support Trump, reminding them that “our constitutional Democracy demands our participation – not just every four years but all the time.”
“I hope that he will be a successful president for all Americans,” she said of the controversial President-Elect. “We owe him an open mind and the chance to lead.”
Late Tuesday night, Clinton called Trump and had what the latter’s campaign chief described as a brief and “warm” discussion.
Clinton was understandably emotional at times, seemingly fighting off years at various points.
But she kept herself composed and on unifying message.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful to have had this chance,” she said. “I know how disappointed you feel because I feel it too. This is not the outcome we wanted. And I’m sorry that we did not win this election…
“I’ve had successes and I’ve had setbacks – sometimes really painful ones. You will have setbacks and sometimes painful ones too. This loss hurt,s but please never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it.”
Very early this morning, Trump gave a celebratory speech that you can watch below:
In the audience at this morning’s gathering was, among others, Bill Clinton, Chelsea Clinton, campaign manager John Podesta and close aide Huma Abedin.
“For all the woman and especially the young women who put their faith in me, nothing has made me prouder to be your campion.” she said.
“I know we have still not shattered that highest and hardest glass ceiling, but someday someone will. And hopefully sooner then we might think right now.
“To all the little girls who are watching this, never doubt that you are valuable, and powerful and deserving and free to pursue your own dreams.”
We can all agree with that sentiment at least.
Are you glad Donald Trump won? Did you vote for him? Are you planning a move out of the country? Weigh in now!
