The last word on the tightly contested US presidential polls will be heard only later in view of the legal hassles that threaten to delay the process. It is clear by now that Joe Biden, the Democratic presidential nominee, has taken the upper hand. President Trump, who tried for a second term in office, is no more his usual confident self. He is exploring legal options to thwart a verdict in favour of his rival while Joe Biden is cautiously optimistic he would enter White House.
Among many irritants for Trump this time was that his leads were “magically” disappearing in states run by Democratic governors; and he has said a “fraud” was being played on the nation. The truth might be different, but what was pronounced all through the campaign this time – as also in 2016 – was that he is fiercely opposed not only by Democrats but also segments of the society. This time, they say they are not impressed by his words and deeds in the White House.
The death of George Floyd on May 25, when he was pounced upon and pinned down to death by the Minneapolis police after a complaint that he purchased cigarettes with counterfeit $20 bill, shocked the black community. The casual response of the President added to their grief. Their massive show of protests in the streets and the campaign that former president Barack Obama did for the Democratic candidate this time formed only one part of Trump’s misfortune. Americans were unhappy with the way he handled the Covid-19 health crisis; where too a casual approach led to the death of more than 3,00,000 people.
The 77-year-old Joe Biden has been aspiring for a White House stint for many years but could not make it due to hurdles that came his way. Family tragedies like the death of his wife and daughter in a road mishap in 1972 added to his personal pain. His election as Vice President alongside Barack Obama from 2009 for two terms, apart from his other political engagements through decades, should keep him in good stead.
There were those who expected a second term for Donald Trump in the White House to push the American moves against China in forceful ways. Joe Biden, or any American president for that matter, would do only what national interests dictate; and as much can be expected from a Biden presidency as well. A Biden win also would mean a win for Kamala Harris, for whom too national interests matter first.