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Today, 22 November 2009

Yesterday, 21 November 2009

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Thousands of supporters of John Kerry poured into the centre of Boston for what they hoped would be a victory celebration for the Democratic challenger for the White House.

But their dreams faded and anxiety turned to anger as the realisation sank in that Republican President George W. Bush seemed closer to a new four-year term.

The massed ranks of Kerry fans started moving into Copley Square in the heart of the senator's home city after polling stations closed.

A spectacular stage had been erected against a backdrop of stars and the American flag, huge stands for the US and international press. The music was to be provided by singer Sheryl Crow and rocker Jon Bon Jovi.

Disillusion grew

But as the results — transmitted live on giant screens between songs and speeches — revealed no breakthrough for Kerry and his running mate John Edwards, the disillusion soon grew.

Business came to a standstill for the sellers of "Kerry Edwards Victory Night" t-shirts.

The rain kept falling and the crowd grew thinner.

"They are leaving because they know the inevitable," said one man, even though a dispute between the Kerry and Bush campaigns over the final result in Ohio had barely begun.

'A sad night'

"It's a sad night," declared Vincent Petrocelli, who was close to tears.

"Fifty percent of the American people voted for a man who is unqualified to be president of the United States. It's a vote based on fear, it will take a while to regain our courage."

"I'm so angry," said Paul Murphy, an actor. "It's a new civil war. We're losing our constitution and our pride to the rest of the world."

Steven Sandrelli, a doctor, called the election result a disappointment. "There are so many ignorant people in this country. George Bush is ruining our country, internationally but also economically."

David Kenna, another spectator, added: "I'm optimistic that people will wake up after this election, change comes when people are in pain."

There were some cheers when CNN television said the battle in Ohio was too close to call and when Kerry won New Hampshire, which last time voted for Bush.

Kerry stayed away

But Kerry chose to stay in his home in the historic district of Boston and left it to his running mate Senator John Edwards to put a brave face on events to the disappointed crowds.

"Tonight, John and I are so proud of all of you who are here with us and all of you across the country who have stood with us in this campaign. John Kerry and I made a promise to the American people that in this election every vote would count, and every vote would be counted.

"Tonight we are keeping our word, and we will fight for every vote," he vowed.

Robin Weiland, who works in the publishing industry, watched Edwards' speech and commented: "I'm worried but I still want to believe in it, I want Kerry to win."

Mary Beth Doyle, a student, thought the result would be closer. "But I didn't think it'd be such a repeat of last time. I'm trying to stay optimistic. It doesn't look so good, but I'm not ready to give up."

The sad rally finished with speakers blaring out a recording of Bruce Springsteen playing Kerry's campaign theme tune: "No Surrender".

AFP