The news of Trump’s close win for the American Presidency hit Italy this morning. Despite one’s own political opinion or sentiment, “the Republican nominee has achieved one of the most improbable political victories in modern US history”. The close race with Clinton these past few weeks has been stressful on many voters, as millions of people believe there was not a good candidate chosen on either party’s side. We know that some Democrats and Republicans have felt under-represented on their political sides. Many millennial Republicans are turned off by Trumps flagrant disregard for both immigrant and female rights. For example, Fortune Magazine has said: “Trump’s flagrant insults and racism directed toward minority groups makes him an anathema to young voters”. And in regards to Clinton, “recent polling data shows just 41% of young voters are supporting Clinton (as of late August)”. In addition, many young voters loved the pizazz that Bernie Sanders offered, “Team Hillary lacks the gleam or enthusiasm” that was a token of Sanders’ passion as a candidate.

Never the less, America has elected a new president; and European citizens are not exactly thrilled about it.

All the individuals quoted below are citizens of Italy residing in Rome and have been keeping up with the American election casually through their news outlets and media streams. They have not been named as to maintain honesty and anonymity.

"We cannot believe this is happening. There might be a reason for this to be happening. England leaving the European Union was another sad thing that was happening. Maybe it is happening for a reason. We just cannot believe it. "

–A professor of Language and Literature with multiple scholarly certificates, including a PhD

"I'm speechless. I was [in America] when Obama was elected and I thought for the people, things were changing. You know, people were crying in the streets out of happiness...For Hillary, I thought ‘oh for sure she will win!’ But I never speak on politics; for once, I do speak of politics and I am worried how people are explaining this to American children. It's just amazing."

–An Advisor to an Italian University based in Rome

"He has won, unfortunately. I think the US will be involved in more...not wars, but they're sending militaries so often in the Middle East. They will probably start a new war under Trump…with not Iran but maybe Syria? I wouldn't like to be a military servant in the states right now."

–An educated secretary in Rome

"All the Americans I have spoken to have said they voted for Hilary. So how could he win? Unless they're lying because they are, you know ashamed. Which could be possible; I don't know."

–A Roman citizen originally from London, United Kingdom

As you can see, many Italians are going off the information the media has been feeding the rest of the world and have not done their own research; this is also the case for many Americans as well. But the reality is this: we come off as a violent, militaristic, bigoted nation because of the presidential candidate we have elected and the race that has been publicized. Despite all the events that have led to this moment, in the words of President Trump, “it is time for us to become together as one united people.”