Irish Examiner view: World holds its breath as America votes

US election will define the country for maybe decades to come

Donald Trump is an enigma who mystifies voters and observers alike simply by being a challenger for presidential office. Picture: Matt Rourke/AP

On Tuesday, the “most consequential election” in America’s history — and possibly, depending on the result, in the world — takes place, and it will define the country for maybe decades to come.

Although some 75m Americans have already cast their votes, Tuesday is the day when one of the longest, most divisive, and vituperative election campaigns will finally bring US voters to the polls and ultimately decide the fate of one Donald J Trump.