Dorset MPs react to Donald Trump's return as US president

Some expressed respect for Trump, and others voiced concern over the impact this result will have on women, girls and asylum seekers.

Labour MP for Bournemouth East, Tom Hayes, shared on social media that he lived in America during the 2008 presidential election, where Obama took the win.

Speaking on Trump's return to presidency, My Hayes said: "It's for the American people to choose their own President and they have spoken.

"Indeed, it seems like the result is clear, and it's important to respect democracy. Having lived in the US, I know how important that is.

"America is our ally; our close relationship will survive any change of government on either side of the Atlantic.

"I want the Britain and American governments to work closely to make our world safer, grow our economy, enhance democracy, tackle climate change, and hold firm against aggression like the Russian invasion of Ukraine."

Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, Vikki Slade, openly backed Kamala Harris' campaign and condemned Trump, saying: "As a woman, as a mother, as a trans ally, as a Ukrainian host, as a climate campaigner, as a believer in human rights I am fearful this morning.

"While it looks like we are heading to a dark place I stand by Kamala's message."

Speaking on Trump's victory, Mrs Slade added: "This is just devastating - the world is moving in a scary way & I fear for all those vulnerable groups in USA but across the world."

Bournemouth West Labour MP Jessica Toale also lived in America for eight years and said she "always keeps a keen eye" on US politics.

Mrs Toale said: "We live in a time of huge political change - locally in Bournemouth and Dorset, nationally and around the globe.

"The UK’s relationship with the US is our deepest, founded on shared ties of language, culture and trade.

"It will stretch beyond whichever party is in power.

"The UK will continue to work with the US to defend our shared values of freedom, democracy and enterprise."