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The intensity and drama of this election was hard to match. With so much hanging in the balance, Americans responded in record numbers at the polls. It was a night of big excitement, but big depression for those who do not like the outcome.
In Chicago, there was wild celebration and hope; in Phoenix, a mood of concession and congratulations.
In Salt Lake County, 163,579 backed McCain and 161,696 voted for Obama. Statewide, McCain got 63 percent of the vote and Obama ended up with 34 percent.
"Though I voted for the Republican, I'm very proud of the significant barrier that has been crossed," Gov. Jon Huntsman said.
Rev. France Davis, pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Salt Lake, marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. four decades ago and was also excited to see that racial barrier crossed. "My personal reaction was whoopteedoo! What a great and exciting time," he said.
But not everyone is excited, or even optimistic, about an Obama presidency. An NBC News exit poll showed 20 percent of Americans are concerned, and 24 percent are scared.
Some who commented on our comment boards at KSL.com expressed an array of opinions.
"30 cal" posted: "After Obama winning last night, I became more and more depressed. It makes me worry for my children and their future."
From Michael H., we read: "I didn't vote for him, and his policies concern me. But the American people have spoken, and I say congratulations!"
Christy C. wrote: "In my opinion, I don't have a president any longer, and I can't wait to see him fall flat on his..."
KSL Newsradio's Doug Wright said, "What do you mean he's not your president? That's like you're on an airplane and you refuse to believe that the pilot is your pilot, and what? You wish him ill? You want him to crash and burn? Hey, you're in seat 14B!"
Right now, he urges us to put aside differences. "I didn't vote for him, and I'm disappointed my guy didn't win, but something monumental happened. This is a quantum leap forward and an inclusive leap forward that you can't discount," Wright said.
Despite major differences in our workplaces, our neighborhoods and our schools, Wright suggests we have more in common than we have differences.
E-mail: jboal@ksl.com
