Trump victory is USA’s ‘Brexit moment’
THE shock election of Donald Trump to the US presidency has been labelled America’s ‘Brexit moment’ by Hyndburn’s political leaders.
The election of controversial billionaire and Republican nominee Mr Trump sent shockwaves across the world on Wednesday morning, and drew parallels in Britain with the referendum decision to leave the EU.
His triumph was the culmination of an exhausting and bitter election campaign with Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. While Mrs Clinton faced FBI investigations into emails sent using a private server while secretary of state, Mr Trump attracted a barrage of hostility for comments about immigrants and women.
Last month he apologised after a recording of boasts he made in 2005 about using his fame to seduce women.
Hyndburn council leader Miles Parkinson said: “It’s a Brexit moment. They want a change and it’s whether that change delivers aspirations.
“The voters of America have exercised their democratic vote and elected Donald Trump. It’s sent a message – which was sent clearly with Brexit – which is all about people and whether they believe in the benefits of globalisation and multinationals.”
He added: “Can anyone put their hand on their heart and say they’ve not said something privately which has been inappropriate?”
Conservative group leader Coun Tony Dobson admitted he expected Mrs Clinton to win.
He added: “Sometimes you have crazy election periods and things happen.
“I’d be wanting to reserve judgement to see what happens in the first few months as to whether he keeps his promises and lifts his game.”