The nightmare scenario has been realized: some predicted that the difference between the two candidates would be so small that it would be possible to challenge the result. That has happened.

Regardless, the overarching message of the election is that America is a deeply divided country. Like very few other times in its history.

And that is worrying.

The National Herald took, as is well known, a clear position in favor of the election of Joe Biden to the presidency. We do not see anything so far that would make us change our minds.

However, we would be the last not to fully respect the decision of the people and the Constitution of the country. This validates the deeper meaning of Democracy.

And we would be the last not to honor and respect the dissenting opinions of our readers.

At the time I am writing, Thursday afternoon, the winner is unknown. It may become known later in the day. Or maybe in a few days.

Regardless, what the result shows is that those who support Trump support him more passionately than before, and those that oppose him, are just as passionate.

But it is difficult to govern the country. To solve its problems. To gain the respect – if not the admiration – of foreigners.

The problems it had yesterday, it will have today. The Coronavirus. The economy. The discord.

How will these be dealt with, unless a new beginning is made or if necessary measures are not taken?

I have noted this several times: We were unfortunate that the Coronavirus hit us during the pre-election period. It is only human, to a degree, that decisions will be influenced by that.

My view is that if Trump had taken action as early as March – he knew by the end of January that the virus was deadly, according to his recorded conversation with journalist Bob Woodward – he would have undertaken testing to a much greater extent. To a great degree, the virus’ spread and many deaths could have been avoided. Likewise, the economy would not have taken such a nosedive, and Trump would have won by a landslide.

But that time is gone, but what we did not do then, let’s do now. Whoever the winner is.

Tell the truth to the people. Use the presidential pulpit to instruct us to take the appropriate safeguards. Help the pharmaceutical industry accelerate development of a vaccine and therapies and facilitate their distribution.

Give new, even more generous help to businesses, especially small ones, and to the people.

The resilience of the people has been exhausted. The fanaticism of the elections distracted their attention – to a great degree – from these serious issues.

But solutions to the problems cannot wait any longer. Immediate action is required.