Coming from Canada, it seems strange that Americans call a 53-47 split a conclusive victory (or loss). And there are so many races with this kind of split. Almost as if someone is deliberately trying to heighten the drama.

In most elections in Canada, at least 90% of the constiuencies (federal and provincial) have a high enough margin to convince us that the candidate/party deserves to represent that constituency. The voters' will is respected.

The other 10% are close races. Each of the viable parties seems to win their fair share. The actual shape of the government seldom depends on these close races. The conclusive 90% set the tone.

But with all these close races, the legitimacy of the winners is always in question.