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Historical Presidential Election, Word for Evangelicals

CBN

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Click play to watch professor and author Charles Dunn explain the historical significance of Donald Trump's win. 

For President-elect Donald Trump Tuesday night's win over Hillary Clinton was just the beginning of what would turn out to be a historical night. 

The last time the United States had an upset win was in 1980 when Jimmy Carter was projected to beat Ronald Reagan. Reagan came from behind after a stand-out debate between the two, just before the election. 

The time before that was in 1948 when Harry S. Truman pulled a surprising win over Thomas E. Dewey. 

Now, we have a case of Donald Trump duplicating a "come from behind" victory. 

Professor and author Charles Dunn spoke with CBN News about the significance of Tuesday night's election. 

"We've had many divisive races, but it always seems like the most recent one is the most divisive," Dunn explained. "This ranks among the most divisive races, but the great thing about America is that we usually come together at the end and we are seeing that now."

Dunn explained that Trump's speech Tuesday night, followed by Secretary Clinton's and President Obama's speeches Wednesday morning, exemplified a movement toward healing for this nation. 

"Each one was exceptional which bodes well with the transition of power in the United States," he said. "We're the only country in the world that is able to transfer power as peacefully as we do. So we need to be grateful for the three of them to set the right tone." 

Dunn also explained the historical significance of the Republican Party winning the White House and maintaining control in the Senate and the House, which any other similar scenario dates back to 1953. 

"[Trump] will be executing a tax policy, economic policy, the restoration of the military, and many other issues he's addressed...this was a monumental election," he said. 

Evangelicals played a big role in securing this election for Donald Trump and Dunn shared a final word for evangelicals cautioning them to recognize their limitations. 

"Yes, they should have a significant role in the Trump administration, but sometimes evangelicals sell their soul for politics," he said. "They must keep their eyes and their hearts on the main thing, namely that is spreading the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ."

 "If they will do that, participation in the Trump administration will take care of itself," he added. "We will see evangelicals play that rightful role."

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