When members of the city’s political contingent made their way to Relish restaurant in West Oak Lane for the annual Election Day lunch gathering, PhillyVoice presented them with a question that seemed easier to answer than it ended up being.
It went a little something like this: In one word, describe your feelings about the end of a tumultuous presidential campaign that drove the country to the brink of insanity.
Turns out that the one-word limit was a bit too confining for the thoughts of folks who speak a lot in the course of their daily lives.
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So, we gave them a little leeway. After all, today marks the end (wish, wish, hope, hope) of a tense time in American history. Here’s what they had to say:
City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell: “This victory feels exhilarating. It's a major moment in our lives. It’ll make all of the battles worth it. It feels like 2008 when Barack Obama won.”
Labor leader John Dougherty: “Over.”
State Rep./U.S. House of Representatives candidate Dwight Evans: “I feel excellent. People are feeling positive.”
Mayor Jim Kenney: “Long lines. People waiting patiently. They’re coming out with a purpose. African Americans, Latinos and women have been bullied and tortured enough. It’s payback day.”
U.S. Senate candidate Katie McGinty: “Hopeful. Inspired. Energized. This great country is filled with good people, and I’ve been honored to hear their stories. I look forward to serving them in Washington.”
State Attorney General candidate Josh Shapiro: “Exciting. Exhilarating. Optimistic. It’ s a great day. Election day is the great equalizer in democracy. Everybody gets a vote and everybody’s vote counts the same.”
State Sen. Tony Williams: “I am hopeful Americans know what’s at stake in this election.”
Gov. Tom Wolf: “It’s great to be able to do our civic duty. It’s a beautiful day for democracy."