By James Downie

Whether they're confident, terrified or "nauseously optimistic," there's one sentiment many Democrats agree on: The presidential race shouldn't be this close. My colleague Hayes Brown lays out that case today, thoroughly documenting all the reasons why Donald Trump has no business being anywhere near the presidency.

But what is isn't always what should be. It's unlikely that either candidate will be routed Tuesday. And only in breaking down why this election appears destined to be so close can we understand how we were led here by a broken system whose failures go far beyond Trump.

This is a preview of James Downie's latest article. Read the full column here.

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HAYES BROWN

Donald Trump should not be this close to the presidency again

Donald Trump's resurgence wasn't foretold after America rejected him four years ago. That he is this close to victory is maddening. Read more.

JOE WALSH

I'm a Republican for Harris, but Democrats have big problems that victory won't fix

A Trump victory would be a tragedy for America. But a Harris win would keep the Democratic Party from asking itself some important, tough questions. Read more.

SETH MASKET

Here's what to remember if Donald Trump tries to claim he won early on election night

It's unlikely that the vote counting will take quite as long this time, but we should still prepare for the vote counting to take a few days — at least. Read more.