Accepting responsibility: What it's like to lose a presidential election

Losing the presidency is a crushing defeat. The incalculable hours of giving speeches, campaigning, and fundraising came to naught. The candidate feels like they have disappointed millions of people

The American public may not find out who wins the presidential election on Nov. 3 or Nov. 4 or even Nov. 5. But, at some point, we will learn whether Republican Donald Trump is elected to a second term or if Democrat Joe Biden will be the next president.

For the winner of the election, the moment of victory brings unbridled joy and acclamation, applause, laughter, hugs and champagne to celebrate the biggest prize in politics.

This isn’t so for the loser, who must ultimately accept the responsibility for the defeat.