Good afternoon,
The ballots are still being counted, and it seems to be only a matter of time before the networks call the election race in favor of Joe Biden.
Election desks are being cautious, given the tiny margins in Pennsylvania, Arizona, Nevada, and a virtual tie in Georgia.
The Associated Press and other outlets reported that the former Vice President and U.S. Senator from Delaware would offer remarks during prime time (8 p.m.) tonight, presumably from Wilmington’s Chase Center on the Riverfront. His vice presidential running mate Kamala Harris is also expected to speak.
Hotel rooms are sold out in the Riverfront area, with the AP indicating that Biden staffers were asked to reserve accommodations through the weekend.
The meeting and event center has become Biden’s event platform as the former Vice President continues to offer statements that strike a presidential tone.
Since Tuesday, a large area around the center has been secured in preparation for what could be a victory celebration.
It has also been reported here and elsewhere that the area around the New Castle County Airport has been designated Defense Airspace, a designation that means pilots could be greeted by jets if rules are not observed.
CNN and the Washington Post (paywall) story about more Secret Service agents being dispatched to Delaware. For obvious reasons, the Secret Service is not commenting, although sources said the move does not indicate any security threat.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump’s campaign has filed challenges in battleground states that will stir the pot.
Whatever the case, we are on the verge of what could be the most significant piece of Delaware history since the American Revolution and the adoption of the Constitution.
Delaware has never been home to a president, and neighboring Pennsylvania arguably had one of the worst presidents, James Buchanan. Historians blame Buchanan, who spent his last years at his estate near Lancaster, for not dealing with the bitter divisions that led to the Civil War.
Any celebration could be low-key. The challenges facing Delaware and the nation are formidable, led by the economy and coronavirus
Biden will not be inclined to “spike the football” in attempting to project an image of unity during an era of great divisions.
Even in his home state of Delaware, Trump managed to get about 40 percent of the vote. Enjoy this beautiful weekend. – Doug Rainey, chief content officer
