We live in a nation dedicated to democracy, so we have more say in who governs than many others, but none of us has the final say.  God reserves that right for Himself and we’re wise to acknowledge it.  Daniel 2:21 says it best:

And He changes the times and the seasons;
He removes kings and raises up kings;
He gives wisdom to the wise
And knowledge to those who have understanding.
                                                      – Daniel 2:21 (NKJV) 

We can and should try our best to vote for the best candidates, etc.  But only the Lord knows what the final results can and will bring.  And he has plans for nations and people that remain beyond our reach. 

Consider Daniel, who said the above, serving under Nebuchadnezzar, arguably one of the worst tyrants ever.  Daniel served faithfully and uncompromisingly and in the end was used in the process of bringing the king to what looks like a genuine faith in the Living God in Daniel 4. 

Go figure.  Few people want a tyrant for a king and fewer still want to serve a tyrant within personal reach of his mood swings.  Yet that’s what Daniel did and he did it well, earning that tyrant’s respect in the process.  The least we can do is pray for our leaders and for the outcome of this year’s elections.