We will soon know (I hope) who America has elected as the next president.

When the election results are clear, a large portion of Americans will be disappointed, perhaps even angry. Another large group of Americans will feel elated, victorious.

If Vice President Kamala Harris wins, Democrats will no doubt wonder if Donald Trump will cede defeat. If the former president wins reelection, Republicans will thump their chests in self-righteousness.

I'm a conservative, but I can see both of these viewpoints. It's understandable to be anxious or upset when your "side" or your candidate loses. It also makes sense to feel happy or even smug when your candidate wins.

Either way, this election has been a hard-fought battle. But it does not need to continue to divide our nation or damage relationships among families, friends and neighbors as we move past Election Day.

This election year seems messier than other election cycles in recent history.

President Joe Biden's cognitive health appeared to decline rapidly and Americans realized smack in the middle of his reelection campaign that he was no longer fit for the job.

Enter Harris as his replacement. She was fresh and full of joy but lacking in substance and authenticity.

Opinion:Harris woos women but has lost men. It may cost her the election.

In recent weeks, Trump and Harris have gotten nasty: Racial slurs and name-calling have been rampant. It's like the schoolyard bullies are now running for the Oval Office.

This election came at the end of four difficult years. After a contentious election in 2020, Trump refused to acknowledge that he........

© USA TODAY