If post-election optimism and goodwill count for anything, the reality of a Palestinian state was successfully launched with the victory of Mahmoud Abbas.

The president of the Palestinian Authority won Sunday's election to replace Yasser Arafat, who died two months ago, and become the best hope for a free, self-governing nation. Consider this quote:

"This is a great step for the Palestinian people, a good test of our institutions and proof to the world that we can establish an independent state." Those are the words of the man who finished second, Dr. Mustafa Barghouti.

Only the most extreme elements wish for Abbas to fail. For ordinary citizens, he represents the path toward peace with Israel and economic recovery.

Abbas has to succeed where Arafat failed, or perhaps never tried, by taking on the layers of militant groups and even deeper layers of corruption in the Palestinian Authority and daily life in Gaza.

President George W. Bush hit the right notes of optimism and said the United States "stands ready to help the Palestinian people realize their aspirations." He also quite properly challenged Abbas' new government and Israel to act on this potential.

As Abbas gained power, Israel's Prime Minister Ariel Sharon held onto his. He secured a two-vote margin of victory in parliament for a unity government that stands behind his pledge to withdraw from Gaza and part of the West Bank.

Sharon's commitment to go through on withdrawal will give Abbas more leverage to make changes in the Palestinian Authority and confront militants who have popular support. Sharon called Abbas on Tuesday to congratulate him, and the two have pledged to meet soon. For these men, in this region, these are no small things.

Abbas represents an opportunity for peace Arafat never did. Sharon apparently sees that. Significantly, the Palestinian people know that as well.