As the U.S. election results began unfolding, students at McGill University in Montreal found themselves anxiously glued to their screens, witnessing Donald Trump take an early lead. Among them, Alexander Compton expressed grave concerns about what a Trump re-election would mean for the United States. “It would be disastrous for the economy, the social values of the country, and particularly for the preservation of abortion rights,” he stated, highlighting a crucial issue at stake in this election.

The atmosphere was electric at the 3 Brasseurs bar, where students gathered to watch the historic showdown between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Trump, who had returned for another election bid. Jacob Wesoky, a representative of Democrats Abroad, remained hopeful despite the tense situation. “It’s a very close race,” he said. “All Harris needs to get to 270 is Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan. If she grabs those, she secures the presidency without needing Georgia.”

As results came in, the venue buzzed with emotions. Cheers erupted when the Democrats clinched victories in Maryland and New York, while boos rang out for Texas Senator Ted Cruz’s successful run. Key battleground states like Georgia, Florida, Wisconsin, Nevada, Arizona, North Carolina, Michigan, and Pennsylvania were under intense scrutiny, with every update causing a ripple of anxiety among the crowd.

Wesoky voiced a relatable fear common among Democrats: “I’m just fingers crossed, hoping that President Trump doesn’t prematurely declare victory before all votes are counted, which is a very real possibility.” Another student, Nate Manis, reflected a cautious optimism, stating, “It’s maybe a little bit worse than 2020, but I’m just trying not to read into it too much, to be honest.”

The stakes felt monumental, as numerous students considered the global implications of the election results. Many took to social media, sharing their thoughts and anxieties, while others engaged in lively discussions about the potential ramifications for U.S. policies and international relations.

With the world watching, the election marked a significant moment of tension not only for Americans but also for those abroad who are deeply invested in the outcomes of U.S. democracy. The tight race serves as a powerful reminder of how local events can have far-reaching impacts, echoing the importance of civic engagement on both sides of the border.

As the night wore on and the results continued to pour in, Montreal’s McGill community remained at the forefront of a significant global event, embodying the anxious hopes and fears of many as they awaited the final verdict on the future of American leadership.