Trump must rein it in no matter the result

Even in an era of so-called “post-truth politics”, the American Presidential election campaign has been truly astonishing to watch. A business tycoon and media celebrity pitched against a lifelong politician, rooted in the US system – there should have been no contest.

Somehow, no matter what he has said or done or – potentially more seriously – is alleged to have done, Donald Trump has maintained his position in the race to the extent that pundits say it is too close to call going into the final day of campaigning.

In years past, more reserved British voters could have sniffily professed “only in America” but no longer.

2016 has been an extraordinary year for politics on this side of the Atlantic as well.

The EU referendum campaign was punctuated with outrageous statements and outright lies but voters seemed not to care. The independence of the judiciary has been called into question and mass protest has been suggested if Brexit backers do not get exactly what they want.

The Brexit rhetoric spouted is nothing compared to some of the outlandish antics of Trump and company.

For the sake of the rest of the world, it must be hoped the bluster of the Republican candidate was no more than a natural showman playing to the gallery.

If he wins, he will have to moderate his actions. If he loses, he, and his followers, must accept defeat with good grace.