Opinion: Some happy, others sad over Trump win. Regardless, Milwaukee must keep working.

Nearly half of the country awoke on Wednesday morning upset and confused upon learning that former President Donald Trump would return to the White House. Conversely, a similar portion of the country is pleased about Trump's resurgence.

As we wake up Thursday morning, we need to put the sadness and euphoria aside over Trump becoming the nation's 47th president in a few months. Instead, this is an opportunity for more individuals to come together and put in the necessary work for the next four years and beyond.

I am disappointed because I had hoped that Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris would make history as the first Black woman to become president of this great nation. In her concession speech late Wednesday afternoon at Howard University, she promised to keep fighting and never stop working for a better America.

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"While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign," Harris said. "The fight, the fight for freedom, for opportunity, for fairness and the dignity of all people. A fight for the ideals at the heart of our nation. The ideals that reflect America at our best. That is a fight I will never give up."

Kamala Harris had shortcomings and faced unusual circumstances

Was she the ideal candidate? No, she had her shortcomings .

She struggled to distinguish herself from President Joe Biden and did not present a clear plan for addressing the border issue. And for many, she was not vocal enough as a vice president. Although she positioned herself as part of a "new generation of leadership," it proved difficult for her to distance herself from the pressing challenges of the economy, soaring housing, and food costs.

Harris had several advantages: her experience as VP and a comprehensive plan to tackle the housing crisis by increasing production. She also enjoyed strong support from African American men and women. She advocated for building a robust middle class, protecting women's rights, and fostering a national conversation about women's health. However, she wasn't clear on how she planned to do these things.

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She remained relatively unknown despite holding a prominent position until President Joe Biden stumbled during his first debate with Donald Trump in June. The Democratic Party recognized that Biden faced challenges in overcoming Trump, and as time progressed, they encouraged Harris to assume a more significant role. This moment proved pivotal for her, as she introduced a level of enthusiasm that had not been witnessed since President Barack Obama's inaugural campaign.

Harris successfully engaged younger voters and minority communities, and I take great pride in casting my vote for her as president.

America opted for another old white man and convicted felon

In stark contrast, America opted for another old white man: a convicted felon whom half the country fears may seek revenge, particularly with a Republican-controlled Senate and the potential for taking control of the House. Many African Americans and supporters of Harris feel another Trump Administration will set poor people, especially people of color, back further.

"I will govern by a simple motto: Promises made, promises kept. We are going to keep our promises," Trump said in his victory address.

These commitments include the deportation of undocumented migrants, the reduction of inflation, the resolution of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the pardoning of specific individuals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection.

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Also worrisome is the exact role of Project 2025 — a detailed 922-page document outlining priorities for his first 180 days in office—remains uncertain. This initiative, through the conservative Heritage Foundation, seeks to oppose abortion and reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, immigrant rights, and racial equality. Additionally, it proposes using federal law enforcement to target journalists and protesters, which raises concerns regarding potential violations of the First Amendment.

Although Trump has publicly asserted that he was not involved with this document and claims he has never reviewed it, his name appears more than 300 times in the text. Numerous experts indicate that, if enacted, the policies outlined in this document could adversely affect low-income and minority communities.

There has never been a more crucial time for us to unite

As the Harris campaign and the Democratic party reflect on its shortcomings, disappointed supporters must unite. Now is the time to dig deeper into doing the work. Now is the time to prioritize maintaining unity and staying connected.

Venice Williams, an executive director of Alice's Garden and a supporter of Harris, expressed on social media that we have faced similar challenges. She cautioned against sulking, reminding us that our ancestors endured far worse hardships.

"Some of my Ancestors dealt with at least 400 years of this under worse conditions," she wrote.

Williams told people to keep doing good work and build bridges, not walls.

"Continue to lead with compassion. Continue the demanding work of liberation for all. Continue to dismantle broken systems, large and small. Continue to set the best example for the children," she added. "Continue to be a vessel of nourishing joy. Continue right where you are."

Her words resonate perfectly for those feeling disheartened the day after the election.

The work continues in Wisconsin, where economic and educational disparities remain among the nation's widest, regardless of who occupies the White House.

While the battle will be more challenging under an administration that is working to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion, that's why it's more important than ever for the disadvantaged to work more closely together. Harris urged her supporters to stay optimistic and keep working for better days.

"I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time, but for the benefit of us all, I hope that is not the case," she said. "But here's the thing, America, if it is, let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, brilliant billion of stars. The light, the light of optimism, of faith, of truth and service."

You can reach James E. Causey at or follow him on X .