'˜I'd vote Republican if I were an American' says Fareham council leader

The contest between Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton to become the next US president is decided today.

The high-profile figures have come under fierce scrutiny in their bid to succeed Barack Obama as he bows out following his eight-year stint as Commander in Chief.

Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage, who backs Mrs Clinton, said: ‘This election is so important. The US is one of the last great powerhouses of the world, and their approach to the rest of the world, whether that be globally or inward-looking, is fundamental in terms of how our relationships move forward, particularly post Brexit.

‘I would prefer the US public chooses Hillary; having done the job of the foreign secretary for the US political arena, she has a much more global view of the world.’

Councillor Sean Woodward, Fareham borough leader, said he’d vote Republican if he were an American – but would do so ‘with a heavy heart’.

Cllr Woodward said: ‘I have been following the campaign with increasing horror as the months go by, largely because two very poor candidates have been put up in front of millions of Americans.

‘Hillary is the established candidate, but I would always vote Republican if I was American. Though I would do so with a heavy heart.

‘Whoever is elected will be the most powerful person on the planet.

‘I wouldn’t say “God help us”, but I hope whoever is in charge has some very hard-working civil servants to keep them on the straight and narrow.’

Cllr Luke Stubbs, deputy leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: ‘Both candidates come with baggage. Maybe it’s just my age, but I remember all the Clinton scandals vividly and wouldn’t want either her or Bill within a mile of the White House.’