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Clinton's Closing Statement Really Hits Home

by Erin Corbett

The 2016 Presidential race reached a new level on Monday, Sept. 26 as the candidates finally had their chance at a face-to-face debate. Monday's highly anticipated debate was hosted by the Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York and moderated by NBC Nightly News anchor Lestor Holt. The first debate of the season focused on the themes of "America's direction," "achieving prosperity," and "securing America," as the two candidates were able to delve deeper into their proposed policy platforms. And as this first matchup came to an end, Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton's closing statement at the presidential debate proved she came prepared to face every side of Donald Trump.

No one was ever questioning whether Clinton would come prepared to take on the former reality TV star and his various sides, no matter what he brought to the debate. According to Clinton aides who spoke with Politico last week, the Democratic nominee's preparation for the debate focused more on "style than substance." And Clinton came prepared. However, when it came down to the final question, Clinton's response hit home as she made a final plea to what some would argue is the most important voting group in this election: undecided voters.

Monday's moderator Holt asked, "So my final question to you tonight are you willing to accept the outcome as the will of the voters, secretary Clinton?"

Clinton responded as follows:

Well, I support our democracy and sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. But I certainly will support the outcome of this election. And I know Donald is trying really hard to plant doubts about it but I hope people understand this election is really up to you. It's not about us so much as it is about you and your families and the kind of country and future you want so I sure hope you will get out and vote as though your future depended on it because I think it does.

Heading into Monday's debate, the polls put Clinton and Trump at a tight head-to-head. According to the New York Times, Clinton was ahead by a slight margin at 46 percent followed by Trump's 44 percent, making her debate performance especially important. And at the end of the day, the way she handled the final question truly speaks to the importance of garnering the support of the undecided voters who may make or break this election. Vote as though your future depends on it.