Well, the very long and bitter Presidential election is over . . . with President Bush exceeding the needed 270 electoral votes and receiving 51% of the popular vote.

Also, as all Americans, we should thank both President Bush and Senator Kerry for the spirited campaign and being true patriots, who represented their supporters with the best intentions for our country.  Yes, I know there are many on both sides who will take a long time to let go of their emotions for many reasons and others never doing so . . . It still doesn't change the fact that we must remain united against the war on terror, leaving Iraq when the job is done, and other critical issues facing our country . . . as graciously stated by Senator Kerry in his concession speech.

Now, that doesn't mean agreeing on every issue either, but each of us should take Senator Kerry's words about unity to heart . . . and to be Americans first in support of President Bush and leaders of both parties to truly come together in the spirit of bipartisanship in Congress to do what is best for our country.  It is time to end the constant gridlock and get back to doing the business of the people and for the people . . . instead of thinking of themselves first for political gain and the next election cycle.

Failure of both parties to work together in compromised fashion should not be tolerated by the voters either.  And if they don't, then it is time to start cleaning the slate with the 2006 congressional elections.  Every incumbent who is guilty of fostering gridlock from this day on deserves to be voted out of office by their fellow citizens in 2006 and 2008.  Reasonable people should be able to come to an acceptable compromise, knowing that they will be replaced if not.

So, it is time to heal the wounds of the 2004 Presidential election and go forward . . . remembering President Bush's words in his victory speech… "I see a great day for our country..."

 

David G. Bancroft
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