In any normal society there would be no doubt about the outcome of the tussle for the United States presidency between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.
Out of his depth when he inhabited the Oval Office, Trump’s decline since is clear for all to see – all, that is, except the 50 per cent of voters who say he is their preferred candidate.
Yes, it appears to be that close.
It would take more than a page in The Irish News to explore the reasons why an insurgent former president who speaks the language of totalitarianism is in such a strong position in the polls.
Jon Tonge: Border poll answers offer something for everyone
Tom Collins: America on a precipice as election day looms
You will be familiar with the famous quote attributed to Abraham Lincoln (also a Republican): “You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all of the time.” If only that were so.
In a fortnight’s time we will know if the US electorate has seen through Trump’s lies and deceits. Like many watching the election on this side of the Atlantic, I am hoping for the best and fearing the worst.
I hope reports that........