Post-Election Predictions

With presidential campaign wrapping up, we now look to the future, and how things could  change under a Clinton or a Trump presidency. We sat down with CBS13 reporter Tony Lopez, who's been following the presidential campaigns since they began, and asked him what he sees happening with Clinton and Trump in the near future.

• If Trump wins, what are the immediate significant consequences you predict will happen? (ie return of left-leaning protest movements like "Occupy," he follows thru right away on going after Hillary indictment, he tones down the bully pulpit and tries to reach across the aisle)

I believe we would see a much different Donald Trump should he win the presidency. Like him or not, Trump is a seasoned salesman who's every move is calculated. During the campaign, he did what he felt he had to do to create a buzz and energy that fueled his run for the White House. Should he become President Trump, I think he would soften his tone, delegate duties to others, and attempt to focus on the issues. With that said, I do believe there would be an uptick in Voter demonstrations and rallies from those who find a Trump Presidency "distasteful." As for any legal action against Hillary Clinton regarding her emails or the Clinton Foundation, I think he will push for the FBI and his new Attorney General to take another close look at the case but I don't see him focusing on that in his first days as President.

• If Hillary wins, what are the immediate significant consequences you predict will happen? (Trump will call election rigged and protest results, right-leaning protest movements will rise up, calls from right to indict Hillary ramp up right away)

If Hillary Clinton should win the White House, I think there will be a loud outcry from those who feel she should be indicted. We will also hear a loud chorus of pride coming from many Americans as she makes history as the first female U.S. President.

I also do not believe Donald Trump would take the results quietly. I wouldn't be surprised to see him ramping up his supporters to question the outcome and demand Clinton face another investigation.

• How do you think the American public will respond in the case of each candidate winning?

Either way, there will be some bad blood. I think it will be quite a while before either candidate's popularity goes up. I'm afraid the outcome, whichever side it falls on, will divide an already divided country. But I also feel the country will come together when we are faced with something like a Terrorist Attack or Natural Disaster.

• What will the immediate challenge be after inauguration for each nominee should they win?

Both will have to work immediately on earning the public's trust. From a crisis standpoint, both will need to tackle the rocky relationship with Russia and the ongoing battle to defeat ISIS. They must also present and "sell" their nomination for the Supreme Court.

• How did this election cycle change how future election cycles will take place?

I believe a Donald Trump victory will change the Political Landscape for years to come. By that, I mean the following: It's one thing for a political outside to run for higher office. Yes, that creates a buzz and excitement during the campaign. But unless that candidate wins, that trend could be fleeting. If Trump is successful, I think more citizens in the non-political world might take a crack at running for office. I also believe if Clinton wins, we will see more American Women seeking higher office.

• What do you foresee being the political climate of 2017? As cold as this year or finally warming up?

It all depends on how the new President handles the opposing party. If Trump goes on the attack, it'll stay cold as ice. If Clinton comes across as defensive and secretive, the climate will stay frigid. It will also depend on the balance of power in Congress and which party is setting the agenda.

• What will happen to the Republican party either way after this election?

I think this election can potentially change ALL parties, regardless of the outcome. We're talking not just Republicans and Democrats but Libertarians and Independents. I believe Republicans will have to redefine their base. I think Dems will have to find a way to reach the "Bernie Sanders" young voters and include them in their party. I also feel Libertarians will continue to take a closer look at the candidate they're putting at the top of the ticket and try to capitalize on the divisiveness of traditional parties. Lastly, Independents could see their base grow, as more and more candidates choose to stay away from being labeled.