Grace in the Face of Defeat

This election season has left many of us feeling torn, caught between conflicting choices and emotions. Yet, as it comes to an end, one moment stands out—one that reminds me of the qualities too often absent from our leaders.

Kamala Harris's concession speech today at 4:00 PM was that moment. In a time when aggression and division dominate our politics, her concession displayed poise and a commitment to American unity—qualities refreshing in today’s political climate. She spoke with respect for her opponent and the millions who voted for him while offering comfort to those uneasy about his election.

"You have power, and don't you ever listen when anyone tells you something is impossible because it has never been done before," said Harris. "This is not a time to throw up our hands — this is a time to roll up our sleeves…Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars."

The day before her speech, I found myself at odds with the choice before me, unable to embrace wholeheartedly either candidate. In fact, I didn't even finalize my pick until I stood in the voting booth, ballot in hand.  My vote wasn’t just about political preferences; it carried the emotional weight of a nation deeply divided and a homeland under attack. Some of my more right-wing friends might be surprised I didn’t feel an unwavering allegiance to Trump. On the other side, many on the left might be perplexed, as I neither wanted Kamala Harris nor believed she was the right woman for the job.

As the night unfolded and the results trickled in — 9 PM, 10 PM, 11 PM, 1 AM — I watched Kamala Harris steadily close the gap between her and Donald Trump. While excited to see a woman beat the odds and be elected President, I wrestled with not liking some of her views and what her presidency might mean for my family's future, both as Americans and as Jews.

Even with Trump declared President-elect, I still don't know which candidate would have ultimately been better for America or my community. What I do know, however, is that I deeply respect Kamala Harris's humility and words today.

"We must accept the results of this election. Earlier today, I spoke with President-elect Trump and congratulated him on his victory. I also told him that we will help him and his team with their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transfer of power."

Kamala Harris did something, Donald Trump, to date, has never done: she conceded with dignity and congratulated her opponent. In doing so, she demonstrated faith in the democratic process, faith in the American people, and a belief in the ultimate control of a higher power. This stood in stark contrast to 2020, when Trump blamed everyone but himself and refused to accept the outcome of his loss. (I'll just ignore how quickly he accepted his win this time around.)

Maybe — just maybe — Trump could learn a thing or two from Kamala's example.