Late the next day, on Wednesday afternoon, the headline story from Juan’s television blared. “In an announcement sending reassurance around the world,” the Univision commentator spoke breathlessly. “After Congress finishes the official counting of the electoral votes, Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to declare Joe Biden the victor of the 2024 Presidential race. Joe Biden is once again the President of the United States!”
"Maybe now there will be more attention on addressing racial injustice!". Sofia exclaimed. Father and daughter sat together on Juan's couch, watching the results come in.
"She has a statement," the news anchor announced. The scene cut to the floor of Congress, where a packed crowd of Representatives rose to their feet.
Vice President Harris assumed a somber posture as she read, “The whole number of Electors for President of the United States is 538. Within that whole number, a majority is 270.”
“Look how excited everyone is,” Sofia commented on the electric tension that seemed to light up the Congressional assembly.
Juan watched intently, noting the facial expressions of the Vice President. "It must be incredible to announce that you won the election," there was a hint of pride in his analysis. "It must be so hard to remain calm and quiet. But that's good. It shows respect."
“The announcement of the state of the vote,” Harris continued. “By the President of the Senate, shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected President and Vice President of the United States. Each for the term beginning on the 20th day of January, 2025…”
They watched for a while, then turned their attention to dinner. Maria brought out bowls of pozole.
“Whoo!” Juan hooted gleefully, “My favorite!”
Sofia grinned, “I missed your cooking, Mom.”
“It’s a special night, mija,” Maria beamed. “We’re celebrating your papi’s first time voting, and first time winning.”
“Ayee!” Juan called again. “Let’s get some tequila!”
"Even me, Papi?" Sofia asked sweetly.
Juan scowled playfully, "When did you start drinking tequila?"
"I was just kidding," Sofia giggled.
After that, they watched nonstop election coverage for a while, but they didn't want to make it a late night. The family started getting ready for bed, and Juan searched for the remote to turn off the TV.
“I’m so grateful that Biden will be our President for another four years,” Sofia found the remote stuffed between two seat cushions and handed it to her father. “Compassion and common sense finally triumphed over racism and evil."
Juan directed their attention back to the TV, “Hey! It’s Trump. He’s gonna make a speech.”
President Biden stood at a podium with a row of American flags behind him. His wife, Melania, was by his side. ""My fellow Americans," Trump began, his voice somber but steady. "Tonight, I would like to congratulate my opponent, Joe Biden, on his victory."
Sofia made a rude noise, but Juan hushed her.
“The people have spoken," Trump continued. "Though the outcome may not be what I had hoped for, it is our duty to respect the will of the American people and uphold the democratic principles that make our nation great.”
He spoke at length about resilience and the spirit of the United States before coming to his most important message, “While there may have been disagreements and divisions throughout this campaign, I want to make it clear that I believe this election was conducted fairly and with integrity," he declared.
A mix of applause and rude catcalls came from his supporters.
Trump cocked his chin at a jaunty angle as he waited for the din to die down. "No listen to me, everyone. This is important. We've looked at the numbers. And while I think you're all going to miss your favorite President, me, we're absolutley confident that this outcome is fair and honest."
A few times during the speech, Trump joked and made inappropriate remarks. Not even losing would humble him. "That's why he lost, right there!" Sofia pointed angrily at the TV. "He's a narcissistic sociopath!"
“That’s enough!” Juan chastised his daughter. “We might despise the man, but you’ve gotta honor what he's trying to do now. There’s more at stake than you know!”
As if on cue, Trump began talking about unity. “As we move forward, let us remember that we are all Americans first and foremost. Let us set aside our differences and come together to address the challenges facing our nation. United, there is nothing we cannot accomplish."
“Sorry, Dad.” Crestfallen, Sofia hung her head.
"To my supporters, I want to express my deep gratitude for your unwavering support throughout this journey," Trump concluded his speech. “May we find common ground, build bridges instead of walls, and continue the great American experiment with hope, determination, and the belief that our best days are yet to come.”
Juan looked at Sofia and said, "It's OK, mija. I'm happy Biden won, too."
There are several other completed Directed Fiction stories available for free on Substack. If you wish to explore further, check out these titles:
Can You Survive the Russia-Ukraine War?
Can You Survive the Greater Depression?
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