“Le Journal” in New York State: pro-Trump and pro-Harris eat together despite serious concerns

Plattsburgh | Mines were low at a bar in the historically Democratic state of New York late yesterday evening, as the odds of Donald Trump winning the presidential election increased sharply.

“It can’t be! There is still a chance that we will win. I believe it,” reacted Vern Witherbe, 43, sitting at Peabody’s bar in Plattsburgh, watching the results on a television.

Around 10:40 p.m., Trump had won 207 voters out of the magic number 270, compared to 91 for Kamala Harris. At the same time, the New York Times predicted that Trump had an 88% chance of winning.

Enthusiasm quickly gave way to dismay in the establishment filled with people who had voted for Democrat Harris.

“I am heartbroken,” summarizes Keith Pidgeon, 34, American flag in hand. We support something that is not Trump’s America, that is to say inclusiveness and the right to abortion. But even if it hurts me, I must have some form of hope for my country,” he summarizes.

Transpartisan dinner

Hours earlier, concern over the election was felt at a transpartisan election dinner at the Whallonsburg Barn in Essex, a tradition that dates back decades.

“Part of me wants to believe that it won’t be a total riot across the country. But there are a lot of people talking about that […]. It worries me,” admits Abby Omaña, a 21-year-old volunteer.

Each election night, this community space is transformed into a dining room where more than 100 people dine side by side, regardless of their political allegiance.

“Especially with the political discourse these days, it’s a time to put all that aside in order to eat and talk together. “, explains organizer Mary Neil Bockman, 66 years old.

Fears of violence

Faced with polls that placed Trump and Harris tied, all voters who The Journal spoke on site did not believe a winner would be declared quickly.

“It will be way too tight. I would like this to end quickly and that we don’t have to deal with what happened last time with Trump contesting the results. It was a horrible situation,” says octogenarian volunteer Norma Goff.

Whether they voted for Trump or Harris, many fear political violence will erupt due to polarization.

“I’m afraid that people will do stupid things because they think there’s something wrong with the results,” said Lee Maxey, who voted for Harris.

The Franch family, seated at the next table, supports Donald Trump.

“I’m still worried. I don’t know what to expect. Many say there will be riots if Trump wins,” worries Holly Franch, 65.