Late the next day, on Wednesday afternoon, the headline story from Juan’s television blared. “In an announcement sending shockwaves 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 Donald Trump the victor of the 2024 Presidential race. Donald Trump is once again the President of the United States!”
“MAGA!” came a hoot from Juan's son Carlos. He was home on leave from the Marine Corps and planned to stay through Christmas. They were sitting together on Juan's couch. His daughter, Sofia, had declined to watch the election results come in. She was out with her college friends.
“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.”
“They’re pretty quiet,” Carlos commented on the pall that seemed to hang over the Congressional assembly.
Juan watched silently for a moment, noting the facial expressions of the Vice President. “It must be hard to announce that you lost the election,” there was a hint of compassion in his analysis. “It's right for them to be quiet. 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!”
Carlos grinned, “I missed your cooking, Mom.”
“It’s a special night, mijo,” Maria beamed. “We’re celebrating your Papi’s first time voting …and first time winning.”
“Ayee!” Juan called again. “Let’s get some tequila!”
Late in the evening, father and son were feeling no pain. They’d made a night out of watching the nonstop election coverage.
“I’m so glad to have our real Commander-in-Chief back,” Carlos signaled to his father to add just a bit more Reposado to his empty glass. “Oorah!” he exclaimed as Juan poured.
Juan directed their somewhat unfocused attention back to the TV, “Hey! It’s Biden. He’s gonna make a speech.”
President Biden stood at a podium with a row of American flags behind him. His wife, Dr. Jill Biden, was by his side. “Ladies and gentlemen, fellow Americans,” he began after some small delays. Tonight, as the final votes are tallied and the course of our nation's destiny is revealed, I stand before you with a mix of emotions—gratitude, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the strength of our democracy.”
Carlos made a rude noise, but Juan hushed him.
“I want to begin by expressing my deepest appreciation to every American who participated in this democratic process,” Biden continued. “Our nation's greatness lies in the active engagement of its citizens, and I am profoundly grateful for your commitment to shaping our collective future.”
He spoke at length about resilience and the spirit of the United States, “This is not the outcome we wanted, but I urge you never to lose faith in the strength of our democracy. Almost 250 years ago, our Founding Fathers crafted a vision of a nation governed by the people, for the people. Tonight, we honor that legacy and the millions who exercised their right to vote.”
A few times during the speech, Biden stuttered and seemed to have difficulty reading the words on the teleprompter in front of him. “That's why he lost, right there!” Carlos waved his glass toward the TV. “He's too old.”
“That’s enough!” Juan chastised his son. “You might not honor the man, but you’ve gotta honor his role as President. There’s more at stake than you know!”
As if on cue, Biden began talking about unity. “As we move forward, let us transcend the divisions that sometimes define our politics. We are all Americans, bound by a common destiny and a shared dream for a better tomorrow.”
“Sorry, Dad.” Crestfallen, Carlos put his glass down. He’d had enough for one night.
“As we face the future, let us be guided by the enduring principles that define our nation,” Biden was wrapping up 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 over at Carlos, “It’s OK, mijo. I’m glad Trump won, too.”
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