To be hopeful in bad times is not just foolishly romantic. It is based on the fact that human history is a history not only of cruelty, but also of compassion, sacrifice, courage, kindness.
I'm Australian so this isn't exactly my election... but having followed it I can honestly say that both Clinton and Trump are horrible human beings, just for different reasons. I can honestly say that no matter who wins, this is going to get ugly fast.