HARRISON – This time, will election actually bring ‘real change’ in U.S.?

THE WORD is change, and it’s used a great deal in politics.

Barack Obama used it in convincing fashion eight years ago, and the word was used again on the weekend by Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump who told supporters, “To all Americans I say it’s time for change.”

Far too often, the use of the word is quite hollow, especially in politics, because for the most part when politicians campaign on change, it really means more of the same.

Trump, though, is not a politician, as he has clearly demonstrated on the campaign trail, veering from one misstep to another.

He is a promoter, a television ratings grabber, a real estate and development baron, but he is anything but your typical would-be politician.

That he’s good in those areas, has enabled him to make this presidential race close, even though he’s managed to offend women, blacks, hispanics, and a lot of other people along the way. By the same token, because he’s different, because he doesn’t walk on eggshells, and is blunt, and in some ways bold, a lot of Americans fed up with the status quo are willing to support his presidency, despite his warts, and many shortcomings.

Can he pull it off? The popular vote says this election will be close. Logic suggests Hillary Clinton will become the first female president of the United States. But this election has been anything but logical, and therefore could represent real change.

Listen to Jim Harrison’s editorials weekdays on Radio NL, and to the Jim Harrison Show at 9:08 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact him at jharrison@radionl.com.