Trump’s victory produces a range of reactions

Speaking to a half dozen people in the Five Towns on the Wednesday morning immediately after Election Day, sentiments ranged from joy, anger and shock regarding the outcome of the presidential race between Republican Donald Trump, who won the highest political office in the nation based on the Electoral College count, and Democrat Hillary Clinton, who ended up winning the popular vote.

“I hope it’s not a mistake,” Jean-Pierre, of Hewlett, said. He added that he hopes that this was the best decision for the country as he waited for a train at the Long Island Rail Road station in Hewlett.

James Metz, 70, of Valley Stream is hoping that Trump can help the nation’s military service people. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he feels that “the veterans have been overlooked for years.” Metz believes that the nation needs to vet the illegal immigrants coming into the country to maintain the safety of its citizens and he is concerned specifically about his grandchildren. 

“The people spoke,” Metz said, as a friend shouted “Congratulations” to him from across the street at the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Station Plaza in Hewlett. 

Sounding like a general preparing for battle, Hewlett resident, Rosa Valdez, said: “Never underestimate your enemy,” as she shook her head in apparent disbelief that Trump won.

Commenting on the lack of substantive discourse throughout a campaign that included rants of “lock her up” and Trump’s coarse attitudes toward women, Michele Beauchamp, of Woodmere, said: “I literally had no idea what either one of the sides were going to do for the country. They were childish.”

Yitzi, of Woodmere, is “very happy” with the results of the presidential election. He declined to provide his last name. “Surprising,” was the only word Michael, of Hewlett, said, who also declined to provide his last name, in response to Trump’s victory.