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Wed, 07 November 2012
Taliban urge Obama to pull troops out now
Timeline Refresh
23:21 Taliban urge Obama to pull troops out now
AP reports: Taliban insurgents told re-elected President Barack Obama today to admit that the United States has lost the war in Afghanistan and pull its troops out now.
"Obama must by now know that they have lost the war in Afghanistan," spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said in a statement posted on the Islamists' website.
"So, without further lying and delays, they should leave our sacred land and focus on their own country instead." Accusing Americans of committing war crimes, he added, "The American administration should stop acting like police in the world and focus on solving their own people's problems, and don't make the world hate Americans even more."
23:12 What will Obamas re-election mean for India-US relations?
Indian Ambassador to the US Nirupama Rao writes on her blog: The President and the prime minister of India sent warm, congratulatory messages to the U.S. President immediately after the elections results were announced. In his message, President Pranab Mukherjee emphasised the shared values and interests between India and the United States, and expressed confidence in the continued progress in our strategic partnership.
Read the full text here
22:48 Nate Silver was right, after all!
Barack Obama may have comfortably won re-election in the electoral college, and squeaked a victory in the popular vote. But here is the absolute, undoubted winner of this election: Nate Silver and big data.
Read the story here
22:45 Little Girl with 2 dads receives personal letter from Obama
When 10-year-old Sophia Bailey Klugh wrote Obama a letter thanking him for his support of her two dads and their love for each other, she probably didn't expect to receive a response, much less a personal one.
Read the story here
22:16 Outcome of US Prez polls immaterial: CPI
The CPI today said the outcome of the US Presidential elections was immaterial since both Barack Obama and Republican contestant Mitt Romney endorsed "capitalism".
"Obama has won the presidential elections. Even if Romney had won it would have made no difference since he and Obama both support capitalism and corporate policies," CPI General Secretary S Sudhakar Reddy told reporters.
22:14 Obama on daughters' dating: Guys will need guts
Dating will be a sensitive issue that re-elected US President Barack Obama will have to deal with as his young daughters stay on at the White House for four more years, with the possessive father saying he will give a patient hearing to any boy who has the "guts" to get through the Secret Service.
Obama today registered a historic win against his Republican opponent Mitt Romney to retain his presidency for four more years. Like any doting father, Obama said he is proud of his daughters Malia, 14 and Sasha, 11, who are quickly growing up into young, confident girls and soon he too will have to deal with their teenage years when young boys will be keen to date them.
22:10 Wall Street drops more than 2pc after Obama win
Reuters reports: US stocks extended losses, with all three major stock indexes dropping more than 2 percent and the S&P 500 falling below 1,400 for the first time since September 4 on Wednesday, a day after the re-election of President Barack Obama, as comments by European Central Bank President Mario Draghi weighed on sentiment.
Read the full story here
21:36 US executes man who devotes last words to election
AP reports: The US state of Oklahoma executed a convicted murderer who made a reference to the 'very close race' for the White House won by President Barack Obama in his final words, officials said.
Garry Thomas Allen, whose execution was stayed three times, was declared dead by lethal injection, just under an hour after polling stations closed in the state.
21:20 Obama's 'Happy Warrior' Biden too gets second term
Joseph Biden and Barack Obama faced each other as challengers in the 2008 Democratic primary, but in opting for a staus quo in Washington the US voters consolidated their partnership as brothers-in-arms.
Biden, Obama's running mate for a second consecutive election, will continue to be in the second highest office of the US as Vice President after the Americans voted for the Obama-Biden combo again.
20:29 Obama: The world's joy, Israel's disappointment
While Barack Obama's victory was lauded across the world, there was uneasiness in the Israeli establishment and concerns in the media over whether the US President would try to extract 'revenge' on Premier Benjamin Netanyahu for his tacit backing of Mitt Romney.
Though Netanyahu congratulated Obama on his victory and expressed hopes that they "will continue to work together", other leaders of the ruling parties had a difficult time hiding their disappointment, some openly saying that Obama was not trustworthy.
20:11 Obama's re-election: What the world thinks
From his old school in Indonesia to a Japanese beach town that happens to share his name, many around the world cheered President Barack Obama's re-election Wednesday while others said stubborn conflicts and deepening economic and environmental woes will not be helped by his success.
Perhaps nowhere was the joy so simply expressed as at Jakarta's Menteng 01 Elementary School, where a statue of the young Obama stands outside the school in tribute to its most famous alumni.
19:50 Central and Harbour train lines in Mumbai affected
Local train services on Mumbai's Central line that connects the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) to the city's eastern suburb Thane have resumed after being disrupted due to a snag in the overhead electrification system.
The break in service was for about an hour.The snag was between CST and Masjid Bunder, which are within a kilometre of each other. It came at peak hour, with commuters heading home, but the effect was localised at CST.
19:45 With Obama win, Wall Street is a big election loser
In October, Wall Street hosted a rich fundraiser at the Hilton New York for Mitt Romney. Hedge fund, private equity and investment banking big shots were among the nearly 200 co-chairs of the event that cost $1,000 to attend. Those who shelled out $5,000 got to leave with a photo with vice-presidential hopeful Paul Ryan, who was the big draw of the event.
Wall Street made a huge bet on Mitt Romney and lost. The financial services sector contributed $61 million to Mitt Romney's campaign compared to giving only $18.7 million to Barack Obama, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. The $80 million spent on the two 2012 presidential campaigns by the finance sector was more than any other single industry.
19:18 Twitter breaks 20 million mark on US election
Election day in the US became the most tweeted-about event in US political history yesterday with enthusiastic netizens firing off 20 million poll-related tweets, the social network said.
With his re-election all-but-confirmed, President Barack Obama took to Twitter to thank his supporters.First there was "This happened because of you. Thank you", "We're all in this together. That's how we campaigned, and that's who we are. Thank you. -bo", and then "Four more years", with a picture of the first couple hugging.
19:00 'Hair Flag Lady' steals show during Obama's speech
Barack Obama should have been the star of his victory address today, but a mystery "Hair flag lady" standing behind the US president stole the limelight. As the president gave his speech TV channels captured the Obama supporter proudly showcasing her patriotism by sporting a flag attached to her head, achieving quick Internet fame as the Twitter hashtag #Hairflag went viral.
18:39 Asia sees stability in Obama re-election
U.S. President Barack Obama's re-election gives Asian leaders greater certainty that Washington will press ahead with its drive to step up a military and diplomatic pivot toward the region'"a move that requires careful management of its relationship with rising regional power China.
But the administration may need to work to bolster ties with Beijing after a bruising political campaign that made China a central issue. Both sides will also contend with new faces at the other side of the table following the expected retirement of senior U.S. and Chinese officials.
18:05
And this tweet just about caps it for those Americans who voted for Obama.
Pat Fuller @bannerite I love it when I wake up in the morning and Barack Obama is President!
Pat Fuller @bannerite I love it when I wake up in the morning and Barack Obama is President!
18:01 Paul Ryan was a dud as Romney VP
Not only did Romney's vice presidential pick fail to turn Wisconsin red, he was missing from the national conversation in the race's closing days. But the race still enhanced Ryan's political prospects. Read
17:50 Imran Khan: Promise to bring 26/11 terrorists to justice
Here's why Imran Khan is trending on Twitter. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan has vowed to bring the culprits behind Mumbai attacks to justice, if he is made Pakistan. Prime Minister.
"India must understand the legal process takes time, but I will bring the Mumbai perpetrators to justice. We have to follow the rule of law," The Express Tribune quoted Khan, as saying. Khan, who is currently in India to attend the World Economic Forum in Gurgaon, assured that as the prime minister, he would ensure that terrorism does not stem from the Pakistani soil.
"India must understand the legal process takes time, but I will bring the Mumbai perpetrators to justice. We have to follow the rule of law," The Express Tribune quoted Khan, as saying. Khan, who is currently in India to attend the World Economic Forum in Gurgaon, assured that as the prime minister, he would ensure that terrorism does not stem from the Pakistani soil.
17:28
But in India, Barack Obama's re-election as the US President brought cheer to Indian stock market pushing the BSE benchmark Sensex up 85 points to close today at a one-month high of 18,902.41 on hopes of revival of global economy.
With this, the 30-share index extended its winning run to the sixth straight day after gaining 386 points in last five trading sessions.
With this, the 30-share index extended its winning run to the sixth straight day after gaining 386 points in last five trading sessions.
17:26 Dollar tumbles against Euro after Obama win
The dollar tumbled against the euro in Asianforex trade after President Barack Obama won a second term following a nail-biter White House race. The euro bought $1.2869 in Tokyo, up from $1.2788 earlier Wednesday and $1.2814 in New York late Tuesday. The greenback was also weaker against the yen, at 80.03 yen compared with 80.34 yen in New York. More
17:23 Nelson Mandela's message to Barack Obama
Dear President Obama
On behalf of our Founder, Mr Nelson Mandela and our Board of Trustees, we congratulate you upon your re-election as President of the United States of America.The US is a vital partner in Africa's efforts to overcome poverty and inequality.
We are confident that under your continued, insightful leadership this partnership will grow stronger, both in working with governments on the continent but also with the burgeoning civil society movements that seek to empower communities.
After your victory in the 2008 Presidential election Mr Mandela said to you: "You will always be in our affection as a young man who dared to dream and to pursue that dream. We wish you well.
'It is our hope that your second term in office will see the realisation of that dream.
As you know, during June 2011 we hosted First Lady Michelle Obama, and would be honoured to receive you as well at some stage in the future.
Yours sincerely
On behalf of our Founder, Mr Nelson Mandela and our Board of Trustees, we congratulate you upon your re-election as President of the United States of America.The US is a vital partner in Africa's efforts to overcome poverty and inequality.
We are confident that under your continued, insightful leadership this partnership will grow stronger, both in working with governments on the continent but also with the burgeoning civil society movements that seek to empower communities.
After your victory in the 2008 Presidential election Mr Mandela said to you: "You will always be in our affection as a young man who dared to dream and to pursue that dream. We wish you well.
'It is our hope that your second term in office will see the realisation of that dream.
As you know, during June 2011 we hosted First Lady Michelle Obama, and would be honoured to receive you as well at some stage in the future.
Yours sincerely
17:17 Todays 6 MOST CREATIVE election front pages
Most newspapers featured early voting photos or shots of the candidates on the stump. These six papers made a different choice on Election Day. See
17:13 Empire State Building wears US election results
The Empire State Building in New York was today bathed in blue light to mark US President Barack Obama's re-election, as results were projected on the iconic skyscraper.
Two columns of light, one red and one blue, representing colours of Mitt Romney and Obama's parties respectively, had been winding their way up the skyscraper in a display put on by CNN.
Each column represented the number of electoral college votes secured by Obama and Romney. As the channel projected that Obama would serve another term, the building was lit completely blue.
Using a brand new vertical LED-illuminated meter, the building displayed a tally of the dash to 270 electoral votes as CNN projected results from the 50 states.
The four sides of the 102-storey skyscraper were lit in red, white and blue, while two sides of its mast were lit in blue and two sides of its mast in red to show Obama and Romney's totals throughout the night.
The tower changes lights to recognise key milestones such as Christmas Day and Halloween.
Two columns of light, one red and one blue, representing colours of Mitt Romney and Obama's parties respectively, had been winding their way up the skyscraper in a display put on by CNN.
Each column represented the number of electoral college votes secured by Obama and Romney. As the channel projected that Obama would serve another term, the building was lit completely blue.
Using a brand new vertical LED-illuminated meter, the building displayed a tally of the dash to 270 electoral votes as CNN projected results from the 50 states.
The four sides of the 102-storey skyscraper were lit in red, white and blue, while two sides of its mast were lit in blue and two sides of its mast in red to show Obama and Romney's totals throughout the night.
The tower changes lights to recognise key milestones such as Christmas Day and Halloween.
17:11
As a @drsbisht tweets: RSS Man Gurumurthy did not turned to Delhi to oppose FDI in retail, but now he rushed to defend Gadkari. Is defending Gadkari more swadeshi? Yes, it is Congress Culture ruining the Country. But now RSS man Gurumurthy's defence of Gadkari, it is clear, Congress culture is more in BJP.
17:08 RSS: Media writes on biz without verifying facts
In other news: Even as BJP president Nitin Gadkari faced open dissent on Tuesday, a crucial role in quelling the political storm was played by S Gurumurthy -- a well-known chartered accountant who is considered close to the RSS.
Gurmurthy tweeted today that that "The Nagpur group was worried about media exposure. The group has no political connections. The media writes about business without verifying the facts."
Yesterday, Gurumurthy of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh worked behind the scenes to calm things down. He also reportedly met BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ram Jethmalani, who had demanded the immediate resignation of Gadkari.
BJP policy makers feel that the trial of Gadkari by the media will not make it possible for him to get a second term as president. If sources are to be believed, by mid-December another meeting of BJP leaders will be called, where the name of the new president will be proposed by Gadkari.
Gurmurthy tweeted today that that "The Nagpur group was worried about media exposure. The group has no political connections. The media writes about business without verifying the facts."
Yesterday, Gurumurthy of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh worked behind the scenes to calm things down. He also reportedly met BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ram Jethmalani, who had demanded the immediate resignation of Gadkari.
BJP policy makers feel that the trial of Gadkari by the media will not make it possible for him to get a second term as president. If sources are to be believed, by mid-December another meeting of BJP leaders will be called, where the name of the new president will be proposed by Gadkari.
16:42 Pak prez Zardari congratulates Obama
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has warmly felicitated President Barack Obama on his reelection as the President of the United States of America.
In a message to President Obama, the President described his election to a second term as a clear reaffirmation by the American people of their confidence in his leadership and a powerful endorsement of Mr. Obama's vision for his country.
The President expressed the hope that the relationship between Pakistan and the US would continue to prosper during President Obama's new term in office.
Wasn't hope one of the buzzwords of the Obama campaign?
In a message to President Obama, the President described his election to a second term as a clear reaffirmation by the American people of their confidence in his leadership and a powerful endorsement of Mr. Obama's vision for his country.
The President expressed the hope that the relationship between Pakistan and the US would continue to prosper during President Obama's new term in office.
Wasn't hope one of the buzzwords of the Obama campaign?
16:35 ABC News anchor drunk during election coverage?
Diane Sawyer's Election Night performance left some viewers asking if she had begun celebrating Tuesday's election a bit early. Co-anchoring ABC News' coverage, the veteran journalist struck a different manner from her practiced, straight-news-delivering style. Sawyer spoke more slowly than usual while seeming to prop herself on outstretched arms at the anchor desk she shared with George Stephanopoulos. Read more
16:33 Cheteshwar Pujara gets engaged to MBA grad
Our correspondent from Rajkot, Haresh Pandya, sends us this piece...
India's rising cricket star -- middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is set to start a new innings off the field, as he has got engaged to Rajkot-based Pooja Pabari in a simple ceremony. Cheteshwar's father Arvind Pujara told rediff.com that the ceremony was held at Hotel Grand Bhagwati in Rajkot and was kept short and simple. Among cricketers, the only one present was captain Jaydev Shah. No date has been fixed for the marriage since Cheteshwar has a tight schedule, says his father.
India's rising cricket star -- middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is set to start a new innings off the field, as he has got engaged to Rajkot-based Pooja Pabari in a simple ceremony. Cheteshwar's father Arvind Pujara told rediff.com that the ceremony was held at Hotel Grand Bhagwati in Rajkot and was kept short and simple. Among cricketers, the only one present was captain Jaydev Shah. No date has been fixed for the marriage since Cheteshwar has a tight schedule, says his father.
16:24 PM Singh: My wife joins me in wishing you and Mrs Obama
Dear Mr. President,
It gives me great pleasure to convey to you my warmest congratulations on your re-election as the President of the United States. The renewed confidence that the people of your great country have reposed in you is as much a tribute to your qualities of head and heart as it is an indication of the faith that the American people have in your leadership. Your mandate gives you a historic opportunity to continue to work for the welfare of the American people as also for global peace and progress at an admittedly difficult juncture, not just for the U.S., but indeed for the world at large.
Over the last four years, consistent with our vision of a global strategic partnership between India and the United States, the ties between our two democracies have seen sustained growth. We have not only advanced cooperation across the full spectrum of our bilateral relationship, but also deepened our engagement in the pursuit of global peace, stability and prosperity.
I have personally valued our friendship and I look forward to continuing our rewarding association in order to build further on the enduring foundations of our shared values and the accomplishments of the past four years. I have no doubt that there is much more we can do together to further strengthen the India-U.S. partnership and thereby advance peace and stability, expand mutual economic opportunities, harness the potential of science and technology, innovation and higher education and empower our people to address global challenges.
My wife joins me in wishing you and Mrs. Obama, as well as Malia and Sasha, good health, success and happiness as you prepare for a new term in office.
It gives me great pleasure to convey to you my warmest congratulations on your re-election as the President of the United States. The renewed confidence that the people of your great country have reposed in you is as much a tribute to your qualities of head and heart as it is an indication of the faith that the American people have in your leadership. Your mandate gives you a historic opportunity to continue to work for the welfare of the American people as also for global peace and progress at an admittedly difficult juncture, not just for the U.S., but indeed for the world at large.
Over the last four years, consistent with our vision of a global strategic partnership between India and the United States, the ties between our two democracies have seen sustained growth. We have not only advanced cooperation across the full spectrum of our bilateral relationship, but also deepened our engagement in the pursuit of global peace, stability and prosperity.
I have personally valued our friendship and I look forward to continuing our rewarding association in order to build further on the enduring foundations of our shared values and the accomplishments of the past four years. I have no doubt that there is much more we can do together to further strengthen the India-U.S. partnership and thereby advance peace and stability, expand mutual economic opportunities, harness the potential of science and technology, innovation and higher education and empower our people to address global challenges.
My wife joins me in wishing you and Mrs. Obama, as well as Malia and Sasha, good health, success and happiness as you prepare for a new term in office.
16:13
On Twitter: This is how #Punjabi #Americans will celebrate. #Democrats #US #Election2012.
On US Election Day, conversations around the polls totalled 32 million tweets with 23 million tweets sent after the first poll closed, the micro-blogging site said today. And within minutes of clinching victory, @BarackObama's "Four more years" tweet quickly became his most retweeted tweet ever, Twitter said.
On US Election Day, conversations around the polls totalled 32 million tweets with 23 million tweets sent after the first poll closed, the micro-blogging site said today. And within minutes of clinching victory, @BarackObama's "Four more years" tweet quickly became his most retweeted tweet ever, Twitter said.
16:08 Why Obama's victory WON'T transform America
As yet another presidential election cycle ends, it's a good time not only to tally wins and losses, but to reflect on the nature of the American political system and why it so often disappoints voters and presidents alike. Read
15:41 1 out of 6: Ami Bera sole desi to win in US poll
Dr Ami Bera was on the cusp of creating history by becoming only the third Indian-American ever to be elected to the US House of Representatives, as five others from the community bit the dust in the polls.
Bera, 45, had a lead of just 184 votes against his Republican rival and incumbent Dan Lungren, when all the votes were counted for the Seventh Congressional District in California. But the Secretary of State, California put the results in the category of "close contest", in which there is less than a two per cent difference between the first and second place for candidates or between yes and no votes for ballot measures.
According to the Office of the Secretary of State, California, Bera had received 50.1 per cent of the total votes counted, while Lungren had received 49.9 per cent of the votes. Bera received 88,406 votes, while Lungren got 88,222 votes.
Bera, 45, had a lead of just 184 votes against his Republican rival and incumbent Dan Lungren, when all the votes were counted for the Seventh Congressional District in California. But the Secretary of State, California put the results in the category of "close contest", in which there is less than a two per cent difference between the first and second place for candidates or between yes and no votes for ballot measures.
According to the Office of the Secretary of State, California, Bera had received 50.1 per cent of the total votes counted, while Lungren had received 49.9 per cent of the votes. Bera received 88,406 votes, while Lungren got 88,222 votes.
15:33 The lost audacity of hope
In 2008, as news of Obama's win spread, racial tensions seemed as distant as that momentous night. But now, the magic is gone. Read
15:29 Yes, he should, four years later
America's dominance in the 'global bazaar' is past. The next president needs to reassure the international community that the US can relate to it more sensitively.
That's the opinion piece on the Hindu. Read
That's the opinion piece on the Hindu. Read
15:27 President Obama's victory speech: 5 BEST lines
President Barack Obama gave a rousing victory speech to supporters in Chicago, Ill., early Wednesday morning. Here are five of the president's best lines:
1. "Tonight more than 200 years after a former colony won the right to determine its own destiny, the task of perfecting our union moves forward."
2. "We are an American family and we rise and fall as one nation and as one people."
3. "Tonight in the election, you the American people reminded us that while our road has been hard, while or journey has been long, we have picked ourselves up, we have fought our way back and we know in our hearts that for the United States of America the best is yet to come."
4. "We need to go forward, but progress isn't always a straight line or a smooth path."
5. "Tonight you voted for action, not politics as usual. You elected us to focus on your jobs, not ours." -- Politico.com
1. "Tonight more than 200 years after a former colony won the right to determine its own destiny, the task of perfecting our union moves forward."
2. "We are an American family and we rise and fall as one nation and as one people."
3. "Tonight in the election, you the American people reminded us that while our road has been hard, while or journey has been long, we have picked ourselves up, we have fought our way back and we know in our hearts that for the United States of America the best is yet to come."
4. "We need to go forward, but progress isn't always a straight line or a smooth path."
5. "Tonight you voted for action, not politics as usual. You elected us to focus on your jobs, not ours." -- Politico.com
15:14 Election total sham, US not a democracy: Trump
American business magnate Donald Trump is apparently unhappy with President Barack Obama's victory and has called the election process a 'disaster for a democracy'.
The real estate mogul took to Twitter to express his displeasure, launching into a screed against the Electoral College and broader Democratic process.
"This election is a total sham and a travesty. We are not a democracy!' he tweeted.
According to the Huff Post, expressing his dissatisfaction over the election results, Trump called for a 'revolution'. "More votes equals a loss...revolution!' Trump said in another tweet.
The real estate mogul took to Twitter to express his displeasure, launching into a screed against the Electoral College and broader Democratic process.
"This election is a total sham and a travesty. We are not a democracy!' he tweeted.
According to the Huff Post, expressing his dissatisfaction over the election results, Trump called for a 'revolution'. "More votes equals a loss...revolution!' Trump said in another tweet.
15:12 Obamas win Not Best News for IT Industry
Many business leaders in India welcomed Barack Obama's victory, feeling his re-election would bring stability to economic ties between the two countries.But not everyone is happy with the status quo, with some expressing worries that a second Obama administration could hurt India's information technology and outsourcing industry. More
15:10 Putin: Russia hopes to have better ties with US
Russian President Vladimir Putin's welcomes US President Barack Obama's re-election and hopes it will have a positive impact on ties with the United States, his spokesman told Russian news agencies on Wednesday.
14:43 Vote counting in Florida halted for the night
Election officials halted the vote count in Florida amid a tight race in the southern state between President Barack Obama and his defeated Republican rival Mitt Romney, US media reported today.
As in 2000, Florida found itself trailing in the count, although this time Obama had already scooped up 303 electoral votes -- more than enough to be re-elected to a historic second term in the White House.
With some 98 per cent of precincts counted, Obama led by 49.85 per cent compared to 49.29 per cent for Romney, Florida's official state election website said.
The Miami Herald reported that the Miami-Dade county would not have full results until later today. In 2000, Florida decided the fate of the knife-edge race between Democrat Al Gore and his Republican rival George W. Bush.
As in 2000, Florida found itself trailing in the count, although this time Obama had already scooped up 303 electoral votes -- more than enough to be re-elected to a historic second term in the White House.
With some 98 per cent of precincts counted, Obama led by 49.85 per cent compared to 49.29 per cent for Romney, Florida's official state election website said.
The Miami Herald reported that the Miami-Dade county would not have full results until later today. In 2000, Florida decided the fate of the knife-edge race between Democrat Al Gore and his Republican rival George W. Bush.
14:37
A break from our live coverage of the US elections to tell you this...
An assistant sub-inspector in Chhattisgarh has been abducted and killed by Naxals.
An assistant sub-inspector in Chhattisgarh has been abducted and killed by Naxals.
14:34 Record 3.2 crore tweets on US Election Day
On US Election Day, conversations around the polls totalled 32 million tweets with 23 million tweets sent after the first poll closed, the micro-blogging site said today.
And within minutes of clinching victory, @BarackObama's "Four more years" tweet quickly became his most retweeted tweet ever, Twitter said. Conversation peaked at 327,452 Tweets Per Minute when the broadcast networks in the US called the US President, Barack Obama, winning reelection for a second term--by far the most tweeted moment of #Election2012.
Throughout the day, the 'twitterati' world was abuzz with the election-related issues. By afternoon, average election-related Tweet volume of about 13,000 Tweets per minute (TPM) over the last several hours '" nearly matched the peak moments of the 2012 State of the Union Address and Republican National Convention.
By 2 pm, there were a total of about 6.4 million Tweets since the polls opened in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire at midnight. Nearly 3,000 Tweets per minute reference "I voted," "#ivoted," or similar terms, with the highest number of Tweets among swing states coming from Florida, Pennsylvania and Michigan. Across the 12 USA Today and Gallup-defined "swing states," nearly 76 per cent of Tweets containing these terms plus a candidate name referenced President Obama.
And within minutes of clinching victory, @BarackObama's "Four more years" tweet quickly became his most retweeted tweet ever, Twitter said. Conversation peaked at 327,452 Tweets Per Minute when the broadcast networks in the US called the US President, Barack Obama, winning reelection for a second term--by far the most tweeted moment of #Election2012.
Throughout the day, the 'twitterati' world was abuzz with the election-related issues. By afternoon, average election-related Tweet volume of about 13,000 Tweets per minute (TPM) over the last several hours '" nearly matched the peak moments of the 2012 State of the Union Address and Republican National Convention.
By 2 pm, there were a total of about 6.4 million Tweets since the polls opened in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire at midnight. Nearly 3,000 Tweets per minute reference "I voted," "#ivoted," or similar terms, with the highest number of Tweets among swing states coming from Florida, Pennsylvania and Michigan. Across the 12 USA Today and Gallup-defined "swing states," nearly 76 per cent of Tweets containing these terms plus a candidate name referenced President Obama.
14:30 What Obama's win means for India
In his second term, US President Barack Obama is likely to continue the approach he's taken to India thus far: expanding trade, ramping up military cooperation and staying out of the India-Pakistan dispute over Kashmir.But there will be some significant issues for the countries to sort out, such as India's immigration concerns and US worries about investment barriers. Read
14:26 Obama's 'Four more Years' pic most liked FB pic
Vadim Lavrusik @Lavrusik "Four more years" Obama photo may be the most-liked Facebook photo of all time w/ 2.1 million likes.
Unverified, but how does it matter. It's also supposedly became the most popular tweet of all time just 22 minutes after it was posted at 10:30 am IST. It's already been retweeted more than a million times.
Scroll down to our 10:48 am post for the picture.
Unverified, but how does it matter. It's also supposedly became the most popular tweet of all time just 22 minutes after it was posted at 10:30 am IST. It's already been retweeted more than a million times.
Scroll down to our 10:48 am post for the picture.
14:18 More winners and 'losers'
Among Indian-American Congressional candidates, physician Manan Trivedi in Pennsylvania and Syed Taj in Michigan have lost. Democrat Ami Bera's contest in Sacramento, California, and Republican Ricky Gill's race in Stockton, California, are still neck and neck.
Pictured: America's first Hindu elected to the Congress
Pictured: America's first Hindu elected to the Congress
14:17 Obamas re-election celebrated around the world
From his old school in Indonesia to a Japanese beach town that happens to share his name, people around the world cheered President Barack Obama's re-election Wednesday.The results of Tuesday's election were closely watched in many countries. Several U.S. embassies held mock elections and threw parties as returns came in. Read
14:09 Tulsi Gabbard first Hindu elected to US Congress
More interesting winners: Democrat Tulsi Gabbard won the race for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District Tuesday with an overwhelming lead over her Republican challenger.Gabbard had 109,023, or 78 percent, while Republican Kawika Crowley had 24,448 votes, or 17.5 percent after the second release of results, which included results from 68 of t136 precincts, as well as all the absentee and early votes.
She is the first Hindu US elected to Congress.
Pictured: Tammy Baldwin, the first openly gay candidate to win, is also a Democrat.
She is the first Hindu US elected to Congress.
Pictured: Tammy Baldwin, the first openly gay candidate to win, is also a Democrat.
13:51 For now, one dog's probably enough, Obama tells daughters
If you've missed this really cute bit in US President Barack Obama's acceptance speech today here it is.
Obama today joked with his two daughters, Sasha and Malia, that one dog was enough for them, even as he acknowledged their contribution and support in his successful re-election bid.
"And I'm so proud of you guys. But I will say that for now one dog's probably enough," Obama said amidst laughter. After his victory in the last election, Obama had promised a dog for his daughters; which is Bo, now known as the 'First Dog' of the United States.
"Let me say this publicly: Michelle, I have never loved you more. I have never been prouder to watch the rest of America fall in love with you, too, as our nation's first lady," he said, in his victory speech.
"Sasha and Malia, before our very eyes you're growing up to become two strong, smart beautiful young women, just like your mom," Obama said, as the First Lady and his daughters joined him on the stage.
Obama today joked with his two daughters, Sasha and Malia, that one dog was enough for them, even as he acknowledged their contribution and support in his successful re-election bid.
"And I'm so proud of you guys. But I will say that for now one dog's probably enough," Obama said amidst laughter. After his victory in the last election, Obama had promised a dog for his daughters; which is Bo, now known as the 'First Dog' of the United States.
"Let me say this publicly: Michelle, I have never loved you more. I have never been prouder to watch the rest of America fall in love with you, too, as our nation's first lady," he said, in his victory speech.
"Sasha and Malia, before our very eyes you're growing up to become two strong, smart beautiful young women, just like your mom," Obama said, as the First Lady and his daughters joined him on the stage.
13:44 Wisconsin as voters elect first openly gay candidate
Voters in Wisconsin broke through one of the last barriers in public life on Tuesday to elect the first openly gay member of the US Senate.Tammy Baldwin, 50, a liberal Democrat from the college town of Madison, narrowly defeated Tommy Thompson, 70, in a nasty, divisive and expensive -- $65m -- Senate race. Her victory helped Democrats keep control of the Senate. More
In another rights victory, Maine and Maryland voted to grant same sex couples the same rights as straight couples.
In another rights victory, Maine and Maryland voted to grant same sex couples the same rights as straight couples.
13:35 What Obama's win teaches business
Given the economic doldrums of the past four years, President Obama was unlikely to win reelection this week. The fact that he did says a lot about the strength of his "brand ideal" and the effectiveness of his campaign. So what can we learn from his success?
Click and you shall know
Click and you shall know
13:29
It is believed that Obama called Bill Clinton, the former US President, thanking him for campaigning in his favour during the election.
13:26 Nation moves forward because of you: Obama
Full text of Obama's victory speech...
Thank you so much.
Tonight, more than 200 years after a former colony won the right to determine its own destiny, the task of perfecting our union moves forward.It moves forward because of you.
It moves forward because you reaffirmed the spirit that has triumphed over war and depression, the spirit that has lifted this country from the depths of despair to the great heights of hope, the belief that while each of us will pursue our own individual dreams, we are an American family and we rise or fall together as one nation and as one people.
More
Pictured: US President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama celebrate with Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill after his victory speech election night in Chicago
Thank you so much.
Tonight, more than 200 years after a former colony won the right to determine its own destiny, the task of perfecting our union moves forward.It moves forward because of you.
It moves forward because you reaffirmed the spirit that has triumphed over war and depression, the spirit that has lifted this country from the depths of despair to the great heights of hope, the belief that while each of us will pursue our own individual dreams, we are an American family and we rise or fall together as one nation and as one people.
More
Pictured: US President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama celebrate with Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill after his victory speech election night in Chicago
13:12 Benjamin Netanyahu offers congratulations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered his congratulations: "The strategic alliance between Israel and the US is stronger than ever. I will continue to work with President Obama to ensure the interests vital to the security of the citizens of Israel."
13:09
Rousing tweet from M Karunanidhi...
KalaignarKarunanidhi '@kalaignar89 The victory of @BarackObama will enhance ties with India and it will wipe away the racial discrimination and Social Inequality in America.
Sigh...
KalaignarKarunanidhi '@kalaignar89 The victory of @BarackObama will enhance ties with India and it will wipe away the racial discrimination and Social Inequality in America.
Sigh...
12:53 Hope over experience
The Wall Street Journal's post-results editorial: Hope over editorial. Read
12:44
Obama reaches the end of his address and the crowd erupts in applause. Michelle Obama and his daughters Malia and Sasha are on state as are Vice-President Joe Biden and his wife. A confetti storm as the mood in the hall is now rapturous.
Hugs all around and President Obama finally leaves the podium.
Hugs all around and President Obama finally leaves the podium.
12:41 We believe in a generous, compassionate America: President
Obama reaches the end of his speech, which is nothing short of an anthem. The crowd hangs on his every word (with every other sentence peppered with loud cheers) as he talks about hope and hardship.
"Despite all the hardship we've been though... I've never been more hopeful about our future, and I ask you to sustain that hope. It is not wishful idealism, but that stubborn thing that insists something better awaits us as long as we have the courage to keep reaching.
I return to the White House more determined and more inspired than ever. Tonight you voted for action, not politics as usual.
"Progress will come in fits and starts, it's not always a straight path. We believe in a generous America, in a compassionate America, in a tolerant America."
"Despite all the hardship we've been though... I've never been more hopeful about our future, and I ask you to sustain that hope. It is not wishful idealism, but that stubborn thing that insists something better awaits us as long as we have the courage to keep reaching.
I return to the White House more determined and more inspired than ever. Tonight you voted for action, not politics as usual.
"Progress will come in fits and starts, it's not always a straight path. We believe in a generous America, in a compassionate America, in a tolerant America."
12:27 Obama to America: I have never been more hopeful
"I have listened to you. I have become a better President by learning from you. You elected us to focus on your jobs, not ours.
"America is not about what can be done for us, but what can be done by us. It's the principles this has nation has been founded on. It's love, charity, duty, patriotism that makes America great," says Obama.
"America is not about what can be done for us, but what can be done by us. It's the principles this has nation has been founded on. It's love, charity, duty, patriotism that makes America great," says Obama.
12:19 My campaign team best ever in history of politics:
"Democracy in a nation of 300 million can be messy and noisy and complicated. It stirs controversy. That won't change tonight and it shouldn't," says Obama.
Obama thanked Vice-President Joe Biden (his running mate) who he called the "happy warrior", as well as his own wife, Michelle, and his daughters Sasha and Malia. His called his campaign team and volunteers the "best ever in the history of politics".
Obama thanked Vice-President Joe Biden (his running mate) who he called the "happy warrior", as well as his own wife, Michelle, and his daughters Sasha and Malia. His called his campaign team and volunteers the "best ever in the history of politics".
12:16 Obama: We rise and fall together as one country
President Obama looks happy, but he's more composure that exultant.
"For the United States of America the best is yet to come. We are the American family that rise and fall together as one country. Whether you voted on Obama's said or Romney's side, you made a difference. I congratulated Mitt Romney on a hard fought campaign.
"I look forward to sitting together with Governor Romney and how to move forward.
Michelle I have never loved you more. I love that the the rest of America falls in love with you as the nation's first lady," says Obama.
"For the United States of America the best is yet to come. We are the American family that rise and fall together as one country. Whether you voted on Obama's said or Romney's side, you made a difference. I congratulated Mitt Romney on a hard fought campaign.
"I look forward to sitting together with Governor Romney and how to move forward.
Michelle I have never loved you more. I love that the the rest of America falls in love with you as the nation's first lady," says Obama.
12:09 Obama: We rise and fall together as one country
President Barack Obama steps on the stage to address his supporters at Chicago headquarters. Cheers, waves, as the crowd goes berserk. With him are his wife Michelle and daughters. Non-stop cheering from the crowd as Obama is at the podium.
" Thank you. Thank you, Thank you so much. The task of forwarding our union moves forward. It moves forward because of you..."
" Thank you. Thank you, Thank you so much. The task of forwarding our union moves forward. It moves forward because of you..."
12:05
CLASSY. The adjective that is being used to describe Mitt Romney's concession speech. Scroll down for the full text.
12:02
President Obama arrives at the hall of his Illionis headquarters in Chicago. Address to supporters any minute now.
12:00
The White House has released this picture of Barack Obama and Joe Biden, with their wives in the background, embracing as they hear news of their re-election from the US networks.
11:55
Here's the full text of Mitt Romney's concession speech -- genuine in tone and gracious in defeat. Read
11:51 India congratulates President Obama
President Obama has left his hotel and his on his way to the Boston HQ with his family. The president has apparently worked on his acceptance speech over the last couple of days with his speechwriter.
India, seems to be one of the first nations to send its congratulations. This is the quick, but soporific message from the MEA
The Government and people of India send their congratulations to President Obama on his winning a second mandate from the people of the U.S.A. who have expressed their will in the great tradition of democracy in their country.
President Shri Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh are separately sending messages of congratulations to President Obama upon his re-election.
India and the U.S. have developed extensive bilateral cooperation and partnership based on shared values based on belief in democracy, the rule of law and pluralism. We look forward to continuing to deepen and widen the engagement between India and the U.S. in the years ahead.
India, seems to be one of the first nations to send its congratulations. This is the quick, but soporific message from the MEA
The Government and people of India send their congratulations to President Obama on his winning a second mandate from the people of the U.S.A. who have expressed their will in the great tradition of democracy in their country.
President Shri Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh are separately sending messages of congratulations to President Obama upon his re-election.
India and the U.S. have developed extensive bilateral cooperation and partnership based on shared values based on belief in democracy, the rule of law and pluralism. We look forward to continuing to deepen and widen the engagement between India and the U.S. in the years ahead.
11:45
Message from UK PM David Cameron: "Warm congratulations to my friend @BarackObama. Look forward to continuing to work together" - UK PM @David_Cameron
11:38
And President Barack Obama's set to speak at the Chicago headquarters. If Romney's speech was gracious, warm (peppered with awww moments), Obama's should be electric.
11:36 Ann would have made a great First Lady: Romney
Romney also said he is counting on America's businesses to invest in the country and create new jobs. "I ran for election because I'm concerned about America," he says as cheers erupt from an emotional crowd.
Romney's family, and the family of his running mate Paul Ryan, walk on stage to greet him.
Romney's family, and the family of his running mate Paul Ryan, walk on stage to greet him.
11:31 Romney: I just called Obama on his victory
OK, Mitt Romney addresses his supporters at the Boston HQ. Conceding defeat, he says he called President Obama and congratulated him on his victory..
Smiling, Romney keeps his sense of humour to the fore and says, "Besides Anne (his wife), Paul (his running mate) is the best choice I've ever made. Ann would have made a wonderful First Lady."
"I believe in America and the people of America (supporters cheer loudly). Paul and I have given our all to this campaign. I so wish I'd have been able to fulfill your hopes. Ann and I pray for President Obama and this great country."
Beautiful speech, true grace in conceding defeat.
Smiling, Romney keeps his sense of humour to the fore and says, "Besides Anne (his wife), Paul (his running mate) is the best choice I've ever made. Ann would have made a wonderful First Lady."
"I believe in America and the people of America (supporters cheer loudly). Paul and I have given our all to this campaign. I so wish I'd have been able to fulfill your hopes. Ann and I pray for President Obama and this great country."
Beautiful speech, true grace in conceding defeat.
11:24 Obama, Romney to address supporters shortly
At the Romney HQ in Boston, people have already started to leave and the mood is angry and ugly, reports BBC. There is going to be a delay in Romney's arrival at the Republican event.
Guess he is writing his concession speech.
Guess he is writing his concession speech.
11:18 A thrashing
This was a thrashing. I don't yet know the full electoral college total, but it's looking like at least a 100-vote margin. That's a thrashing. Over at 11:13? And the truth is, it wasn't even that dramatic. It was over around 9:00. The next two hours were just waiting around for it to be official. Read
11:15 Why Wall Street is wrong about Obama
Traders, bankers, and money managers all want to see Romney in the White House. But Obama has delivered big stock market gains. (And now, they'll just have to grin and bear it.) Read
11:13 Republicans bet everything, and Obama won it all
Republicans greeted Barack Obama's presidency with a calculated wave of total opposition. They would not cut a deal on health care or on the federal budget, each time accepting the risk of total defeat rather than settle for half-measures, like giving Democrats some kind of token health care reform or small tax increase.The gamble was that by denying Obama any support, they would render his presidency wholly partisan at best, and a dysfunctional failure at worst. Read more
Pictured: Supporters at Romney's headquarters in Boston, Mass
Pictured: Supporters at Romney's headquarters in Boston, Mass
11:08 Narrow margin for Obama in Ohio
In Ohio, votes are still being counted. Obama's lead is extremely narrow - he's just 0.2% ahead of Romney there - just 10,000 votes. Obama has 49.3 per cent, but Romney is snapping at his heels with 49.1 per cent. -- BBC.
11:05 Battleground states bring Obama second term
Here's how President Obama did on the battleground states: Voters awarded President Barack Obama a second term Tuesday, as he swept most battleground states despite voters' lingering concerns about the economy and the direction that the country is headed. Read the full story here.
10:57 Blacks, Hispanics, big turnout reasons why Obama won
The BBC analysis on why Obama won (290:201 as of now): "The key to Obama's victory appears to have been a big turn out of loyal Democratic supporters, especially black people and Hispanics. The ground game has paid off. There will be many problems in a second term, but for the president's supporters this is a moment of joy and relief.
Pictured: Obama supporters cheer his win. Seems like the bearded man in front is yet to get it.
Pictured: Obama supporters cheer his win. Seems like the bearded man in front is yet to get it.
10:52 Hour later, Romney still refuses to concede defeat
Obama became only the second Democrat to win a second term in White House since World War II. With some swing states, including Florida and Virginia, yet to be declared, Obama already had 275 electoral votes.
Obama, who was elected four years ago on the plank of "real change", had a tough time answering questions on issues like unemployment and handling economic recession.
Opinion polls had given him only a slight advantage but the tackling of the after-effects of superstorm Sandy appeared to have given him some edge. Romney's aides had hoped that a late wave in favour of the Republican candidate would oust Obama on account of a sluggish recovery from the worst economic crisis since the 1930s Great Depression and high unemployment.
The mood at Romney headquarters in Boston turned subdued after networks declared his rival the winner. Defeats in New Hampshire, Romney's summer abode, and Wisconsin, the home of Republican vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan, were especially disheartening for the Republicans.
Polls also showed that though only 39 per cent of people believed that the economy was improving, around half of Americans blamed former President George W Bush for the gloomy scenario, and not Obama. Television networks projected that Republicans would win the House of Representatives, while the Democrats clung onto the Senate.
And yes, Romney has yet to concede defeat. Looks like Obama will have to break tradition and speak before the losing candidate accepts defeat.
Obama, who was elected four years ago on the plank of "real change", had a tough time answering questions on issues like unemployment and handling economic recession.
Opinion polls had given him only a slight advantage but the tackling of the after-effects of superstorm Sandy appeared to have given him some edge. Romney's aides had hoped that a late wave in favour of the Republican candidate would oust Obama on account of a sluggish recovery from the worst economic crisis since the 1930s Great Depression and high unemployment.
The mood at Romney headquarters in Boston turned subdued after networks declared his rival the winner. Defeats in New Hampshire, Romney's summer abode, and Wisconsin, the home of Republican vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan, were especially disheartening for the Republicans.
Polls also showed that though only 39 per cent of people believed that the economy was improving, around half of Americans blamed former President George W Bush for the gloomy scenario, and not Obama. Television networks projected that Republicans would win the House of Representatives, while the Democrats clung onto the Senate.
And yes, Romney has yet to concede defeat. Looks like Obama will have to break tradition and speak before the losing candidate accepts defeat.
10:48 Obama hugging Michelle after win most popular tweet of all time
The photo tweeted by Obama earlier this evening of himself hugging First Lady Michelle Obama, as news of his re-election victory broke, has become the most popular tweet of all time just 22 minutes after it was posted, Buzzfeed reports. It's already been retweeted more than a quarter of a million times with upwards of 72,000 people marking it as a favourite.-- BBC.
10:40
Sonia Faleiro @soniafaleiro Fireworks, screams of joy from the local bar, the sound of bubbly popping from every apartment. #Sanfrancisco
10:37 Obama: Win wasn't fate, it wasn't an accident
Obama shoots off letter to his key supporters, as he prepares to speak after his convincing victory.
I'm about to go speak to the crowd here in Chicago, but I wanted to thank you first.
I want you to know that this wasn't fate, and it wasn't an accident.
You made this happen.You organized yourselves block by block.
You took ownership of this campaign five and ten dollars at a time.
And when it wasn't easy, you pressed forward.
I will spend the rest of my presidency honoring your support, and doing what I can to finish what we started.
But I want you to take real pride, as I do, in how we got the chance in the first place.
Today is the clearest proof yet that, against the odds, ordinary Americans can overcome powerful interests.
There's a lot more work to do.
But for right now
Thank you.
Barack
I'm about to go speak to the crowd here in Chicago, but I wanted to thank you first.
I want you to know that this wasn't fate, and it wasn't an accident.
You made this happen.You organized yourselves block by block.
You took ownership of this campaign five and ten dollars at a time.
And when it wasn't easy, you pressed forward.
I will spend the rest of my presidency honoring your support, and doing what I can to finish what we started.
But I want you to take real pride, as I do, in how we got the chance in the first place.
Today is the clearest proof yet that, against the odds, ordinary Americans can overcome powerful interests.
There's a lot more work to do.
But for right now
Thank you.
Barack
10:32
Mitt Romney's last tweet was six hours ago. The Republican is yet to concede defeat or make a statement.
As columnist Sonia Faleiro puts it: Romney hasn't conceded his 2008 primary loss. He'll have to be sedated into this.
As columnist Sonia Faleiro puts it: Romney hasn't conceded his 2008 primary loss. He'll have to be sedated into this.
10:28
As television networks projected that Obama was on the road to victory once again, his supporters flooded the campaign headquarters in Chicago, the hometown of the President.
Celebrations erupted as Democrats raised slogans and reveled in victory. Hundreds and thousands of supporters of Barack Obama across the country from his home town Chicago to Times Square in New York erupted in celebrations.
As we said earlier, official results are yet to be declared and Romney is also yet to concede defeat.
Celebrations erupted as Democrats raised slogans and reveled in victory. Hundreds and thousands of supporters of Barack Obama across the country from his home town Chicago to Times Square in New York erupted in celebrations.
As we said earlier, official results are yet to be declared and Romney is also yet to concede defeat.
10:25 Why Romney lost
And the analysis has begun. Here's one on Huffington Post.
Every faction of the Republican Party will use the 2012 presidential campaign to draw conclusions that pander to their ideological biases. Arch Tea Partiers will argue that the "moderate Mitt" of the debates let the wind out of the party's sails.
Party moderates will say the same thing about the self-described "severe conservative" who ran in the Republican primaries and appeared at the convention.
Apologists for the Romney campaign will say that super-storm Sandy put the president front and center and sapped the former Massachusetts governors' campaign of strength when it was on the cusp of victory. More
Every faction of the Republican Party will use the 2012 presidential campaign to draw conclusions that pander to their ideological biases. Arch Tea Partiers will argue that the "moderate Mitt" of the debates let the wind out of the party's sails.
Party moderates will say the same thing about the self-described "severe conservative" who ran in the Republican primaries and appeared at the convention.
Apologists for the Romney campaign will say that super-storm Sandy put the president front and center and sapped the former Massachusetts governors' campaign of strength when it was on the cusp of victory. More
10:21
Denzel Washington @DenzelWisdom Obama won Massachusetts the state where Romney was Governor. If they didn't vote for him, that should tell you something.
Yes, that's the tweet from the very talented actor.
Yes, that's the tweet from the very talented actor.
10:20
President Obama's electoral votes have now gone up to 281, Romney 201. He need 270 for a win. -- CNN projection.
10:18
Barack Obama @BarackObama We're all in this together. That's how we campaigned, and that's who we are. Thank you. -bo
-bo indicates tweets directly from Obama.
-bo indicates tweets directly from Obama.
10:15 Romney refuses to concede elections
And here's why there is not a peep out of Mitt Romney. CNN reports that the Romney campaign is not ready to concede the election. Uh? As we said earlier, Romney said he had prepared just one speech: the winning speech, while Obama, had said he prepared two speeches -- winner and well, loser.
10:12
And that's the picture President Obama tweeted within minutes of his win, with the line: Four more years.
10:09 Romeny yet to concede defeat
As Obama claims victory with at least 275 electoral college votes, he continues to lag in the popular vote count. Romney has 49.8% of the vote while Obama has 48.9%.2327: There is no word yet on any concession from Mitt Romney, but the election has come to a conclusion at great speed, with a series of states falling for Obama and putting him over the top. -- BBC.
10:04
The tally now, according to CNN is Obama: 274, Romney: 201. A clear win.
10:02 Electric atmosphere in Obama's home state Chicago
Crowd in Chicago is cheering, crying, hugging, waving and screaming. The mood is electric. Romney had said earlier that he had prepared just one speech: A victory speech. Seems like his speechwriter will have to make some quick and elaborate changes.
Obama's acceptance speech, the much-awaited winner's speech promises to be every bit as riveting as his speeches generally are.
Mitt Romney's remarks to supporters are awaited.
Obama's acceptance speech, the much-awaited winner's speech promises to be every bit as riveting as his speeches generally are.
Mitt Romney's remarks to supporters are awaited.
09:57 Obama tweets: FOUR MORE YEARS
The tally now stands at Obama: 274 (crossing the magic figure of 270), Romney: 201. At Obama's Chicago headquarters crowds of supporters celebrating President Obama's win for a second term.
With a picture of himself hugging wife Michelle, Barack Obama tweets: "Four more years."
With a picture of himself hugging wife Michelle, Barack Obama tweets: "Four more years."
09:52 CNN calls: President Obama wins re-election
And so, here it is. CNN projects President Obama wins the re-election.
Obama also tweets: "This happened because of you. Thank you.
Obama also wins the critical swing state of Ohio. It's basically all over for Mr Mitt Romney.
Obama also tweets: "This happened because of you. Thank you.
Obama also wins the critical swing state of Ohio. It's basically all over for Mr Mitt Romney.
09:50 Obama wins Iowa, N Carolina goes to Romney
Romney takes North Carolina, reclaimed from the Democrats, with 15 electoral votes.
Obama wins Iowa, projects CNN.
At Obama's Chicago headquarters the mood, as expected, is jubilant. Electric.
New tally: Obama: 256, Romney: 201
Obama wins Iowa, projects CNN.
At Obama's Chicago headquarters the mood, as expected, is jubilant. Electric.
New tally: Obama: 256, Romney: 201
09:36
More results: As expected, California, Hawaii and Washington go to Obama, while Idaho goes for Romney. None of those states has changed hands.
Total number of Electoral College votes: 538
Total needed to win: 270
Obama total: 237
Unallocated Electoral Votes: 95
Total number of Electoral College votes: 538
Total needed to win: 270
Obama total: 237
Unallocated Electoral Votes: 95
09:30 More than anything else I want to thank you all: Michelle
Barack Obama is probably adding final touches to his acceptance speech as he heads for a likely win.
Michelle Obama tweets: @MichelleObama More than anything, I want to thank you all for everything. I am so grateful to every one of you for your support and your prayers. -mo
Tweets from the First Lady are signed -mo.
Michelle Obama tweets: @MichelleObama More than anything, I want to thank you all for everything. I am so grateful to every one of you for your support and your prayers. -mo
Tweets from the First Lady are signed -mo.
09:27 'Tired, people still looking for hope'
09:20 Bob Dylan says Obama will win
The iconic singer songwriter wrote on his Facebook page: Here's pretty close to what I said last night in Madison. I said from the stage that we had to play better than good tonight, that the president was here today and he's a hard act to follow. Also, that we're not fooled by the media and we think it's going to be a landslide. That's pretty much all of it.
- Bob Dylan
- Bob Dylan
09:19 Obama: 237 of 270 votes
ABC and CBS has now called Minnesota for Barack Obama. Assuming that holds up, then David Axelrod's moustache is safe. The senior strategist had pledged to shave it off in ridiculing Republican claims to have a shot at Minnesota.
-- The Guardian.
Obama: 237 of 270 votes.
-- The Guardian.
Obama: 237 of 270 votes.
09:11 Obama squeezes ahead (for now) in nail-biting finish
So, right now, United States President Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney are locked in an intense battle for the White House. Pundits have predicted a wafer-thin win for the incumbent. The two candidates went neck-to-neck as counting began across 50 states to decide who will officially become the world's most powerful person for the next four years.
See our slideshow.
See our slideshow.
09:08 The next American president will be elected on January 6, 2013
Here's an interesting factoid from Al Jazeera.
The next American president will be elected on January 6, 2013. On that day, the votes of 538 people - the members of the "Electoral College" - will be counted at a joint session of the United States Congress (the name of the US legislature).
Provided Barack Obama or Mitt Romney receives a majority (that is, at least 270) of these votes, he will be re-elected/elected president of the United States.
Only 538 people actually vote directly for the President - and Vice-President - of the United States. When everyone else votes on November 6, they are merely playing a role in determining who these 538 "electors" are.
The next American president will be elected on January 6, 2013. On that day, the votes of 538 people - the members of the "Electoral College" - will be counted at a joint session of the United States Congress (the name of the US legislature).
Provided Barack Obama or Mitt Romney receives a majority (that is, at least 270) of these votes, he will be re-elected/elected president of the United States.
Only 538 people actually vote directly for the President - and Vice-President - of the United States. When everyone else votes on November 6, they are merely playing a role in determining who these 538 "electors" are.
09:03
Rukku Motiwala tweets: Votinng in Tudor City rocks! 10 minutes in and out :)
09:00 Obama leading in Ohio, neck-and-neck in Florida
Here's why Ohio keeps popping up on the headlines. Why is the win so crucial.
Ohio is so important because at the moment it seems very difficult for Mitt Romney to be elected president without winning Ohio. This is because President Obama enters the election with a "safe state" advantage: he began the election campaign all but guaranteed to win states that contained 237 electors; Romney, in contrast, starts with only 190 electors guaranteed (including Missouri), reports Al Jazeera.
Ohio has 18 electors, which means if Obama wins it he is already at 255 electors, or only 15 shy of what he needs to be elected president of the United States.
There are many, many ways he could pick up these electors: He could win Florida. He could win New Hampshire and Virginia. He could win Iowa and Wisconsin, etc. Bottom line, if Romney loses Ohio, he can only afford to lose at best one or two more swing states, and thus the importance of Ohio.
"In 2000, Al Gore received approximately half a million more votes than George W Bush, but, as history records, Bush became president."
The count so far: Obama: 147, Romney: 158
Ohio is so important because at the moment it seems very difficult for Mitt Romney to be elected president without winning Ohio. This is because President Obama enters the election with a "safe state" advantage: he began the election campaign all but guaranteed to win states that contained 237 electors; Romney, in contrast, starts with only 190 electors guaranteed (including Missouri), reports Al Jazeera.
Ohio has 18 electors, which means if Obama wins it he is already at 255 electors, or only 15 shy of what he needs to be elected president of the United States.
There are many, many ways he could pick up these electors: He could win Florida. He could win New Hampshire and Virginia. He could win Iowa and Wisconsin, etc. Bottom line, if Romney loses Ohio, he can only afford to lose at best one or two more swing states, and thus the importance of Ohio.
"In 2000, Al Gore received approximately half a million more votes than George W Bush, but, as history records, Bush became president."
The count so far: Obama: 147, Romney: 158
08:55 Obama leading in Ohio, neck-and-neck in Florida
Obama leading in Ohio, neck-and-neck in Florida: CNN projections
08:53
Mitt Romney's tweet four hours ago: With your help, we will turn our country around and get America back on the path to prosperity. Please vote today
08:51 Glitches, partisan disputes mar vote
Voting glitches, lengthy delays and partisan disputes popped up at polling sites across the country on Election Day, although none appeared to reach the level of a major disruption.
From South Florida to Michigan and to the coastal New York and New Jersey regions affected by superstorm Sandy, strong turnout and some delays caused by the creaky voting system led to long lines at polling stations.
"Usually, you walk in, vote," said Ralph Jones, a retired metal-press operator at General Motors who waited about an hour to vote at a precinct in Ferndale, just north of Detroit. More
From South Florida to Michigan and to the coastal New York and New Jersey regions affected by superstorm Sandy, strong turnout and some delays caused by the creaky voting system led to long lines at polling stations.
"Usually, you walk in, vote," said Ralph Jones, a retired metal-press operator at General Motors who waited about an hour to vote at a precinct in Ferndale, just north of Detroit. More
08:47
Mitt Romney's paths to victory are narrowing. With New Hampshire called and Wisconsin apparently in the president's grasp, the New York Times' handy tool tells us the Republican would have just nine ways to win - to Obama's 118. An Obama win in Florida and he would be home and dry. But that's very far from certain...
08:38
And here's a tweet from Barack Obama '@BarackObama If you're in line when the polls close, stay in line to vote. It could help make the difference.
The US president has been extremely active on Twitter, much more so than his rival Mitt Romney, with tweets every few minutes and pictures to boot.
The US president has been extremely active on Twitter, much more so than his rival Mitt Romney, with tweets every few minutes and pictures to boot.
08:37
Nicholas Thompson on Twitter: Mentioned this two months ago, but apt now: The GOP hasn't won without a Bush or Nixon on ticket since 1928.
08:36
A tweet that's topping the list on America: BARACK OBAMA: Romney Wanted To Help America, He'd Vote For Obama.
Obviously, that's a fake Obama handle.
Obviously, that's a fake Obama handle.
08:33
So far, here's what the count stands at. Obama: 143, Romney: 158. 270 needed to win.
08:31
Four more states closing their polls: Iowa, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Nevada and North Dakota. Utah, which has a strong Mormon population is likely to go to Romney. No projections coming in on any of the other states so far.
08:27 Two more wins for Obama: New Hampshire, Minnesota
Another two states for Barack Obama: New Hampshire and four electoral votes, and Minnesota with 10.
08:26 At the 3 Cs
As the count continues in Ohio, here's what's happening in the three Cs: Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati.
Obama hopes for a strong performance in Cleveland, while Romney is looking for a strong showing in Hamilton County around Cincinnati - Obama was the first Democrat to win there in a generation when he snatched it in 2008. Bush won there in 2004.
Obama hopes for a strong performance in Cleveland, while Romney is looking for a strong showing in Hamilton County around Cincinnati - Obama was the first Democrat to win there in a generation when he snatched it in 2008. Bush won there in 2004.
08:24 In space, astronaut Sunita Wlliams casts absentee ballot
Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, currently in space floating around in zero-gravity, voted for US presidential polls by absentee ballot. Sunita, along with flight engineer Kevin Ford, exercised her franchise in July while stationed in Russia even before heading up to the station aboard Soyuz ships launched from the Baikonur cosmodrome.
The other four members of the station's current Expedition 33 crew are all non-Americans -- three Russian cosmonauts and one Japanese space ace. For several years now, adventurers aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have been able to cast their votes via encrypted e-mail. Voting facility is available to those in the ISS with the help of to a digital ballot provided by Mission Control at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.
The provision was envisaged by a 1997 Bill passed in the state of Texas, home to most of the NASA astronauts. The Bill allowed registered voters to digitally beam their ballots back down to Houston.
The other four members of the station's current Expedition 33 crew are all non-Americans -- three Russian cosmonauts and one Japanese space ace. For several years now, adventurers aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have been able to cast their votes via encrypted e-mail. Voting facility is available to those in the ISS with the help of to a digital ballot provided by Mission Control at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.
The provision was envisaged by a 1997 Bill passed in the state of Texas, home to most of the NASA astronauts. The Bill allowed registered voters to digitally beam their ballots back down to Houston.
08:22 Obama congratulates Romney (on hard-fought race)
Yesterday, US President Barack Obama congratulated Republican rival Mitt Romney for running a hard-fought race for the White House and expressed confidence he would win re-election during a stop at a local campaign office to thank volunteers. Interestingly, a volunteer he called from the office, did not recognise his name! More
08:16
Massachusetts: Now it's official: Elizabeth Warren takes down Scott Brown. Teddy is smiling. That's a big win for Democrats.
08:14 Indian-Americans vote for Obama in swing states: Survey
Nearly three-fourth of Indian Americans voted for US President Barack Obama in the swing states which are considered to be decisive in final results, a sample survey has found.
In the survey done by San Francisco-based April Media among those voted from Ohio, Colorado, Wisconsin, Florida and Virginia, 75 per cent of Indian Americans voted for Obama.
In Pennsylvania, however, the community favoured Mitt Romney, the Republican presidential candidate. Indian Americans in Pennsylvania think that "Obama did not bring about the changes he promised," April Media said.
Interestingly, among total Indian Americans in these swing states, only 40 per cent were registered to vote as rest of them was either on a temporary visa status or permanent residents, the press statement said. In the national survey, 60 per cent favored Obama, while 20 per cent favoured Romney.
In the survey done by San Francisco-based April Media among those voted from Ohio, Colorado, Wisconsin, Florida and Virginia, 75 per cent of Indian Americans voted for Obama.
In Pennsylvania, however, the community favoured Mitt Romney, the Republican presidential candidate. Indian Americans in Pennsylvania think that "Obama did not bring about the changes he promised," April Media said.
Interestingly, among total Indian Americans in these swing states, only 40 per cent were registered to vote as rest of them was either on a temporary visa status or permanent residents, the press statement said. In the national survey, 60 per cent favored Obama, while 20 per cent favoured Romney.
08:12
The New York Times election analyst Nate Silver tweets: On The Wall, The Writing.The steady drip, drip, drip of states appearing to tumble into the president's column is making this a tough race for Mitt Romney. He needs to win Florida and Virginia to keep this going until Ohio declares.
08:11
At this hour, here's where we stand: Results petering in from 30 states out of 51 and so far, Romney is marginally in the lead with 153 electoral college votes. At 143 votes, is Obama. The race to the magic number of 270 continues. So far, there haven't been any major upsets, but two swing states, Michigan and Pennsylvania, have been called in Obama's favour. --- BBC.
08:09 Obama (143) wins Wisconsin, Romney: 153
What the tweets say:
Paul Adams BBC News, Chicago tweets: Romney's must win states are starting to disappear. PA gone. Wisconsin just announced for Obama.
@BBCNewsUS #election2012 Mark Mardell BBC North America editor tweets: Pennsylvania for Obama - I guess Mitt's late trip there was to project image of a winner, not about winning the state2128: Another network calling a vital state: Fox News this time, and Wisconsin - home of Romney's vice-presidential pick Paul Ryan. We'll bring you more when we have
@daveweigel Romney-Ryan becomes first presidential ticket to lose both candidates' home states since McGovern-Shriver, 1972
Figures have changed again: Obama is now up to 143 electoral votes, as against Romney's 153, says the BBC.
Paul Adams BBC News, Chicago tweets: Romney's must win states are starting to disappear. PA gone. Wisconsin just announced for Obama.
@BBCNewsUS #election2012 Mark Mardell BBC North America editor tweets: Pennsylvania for Obama - I guess Mitt's late trip there was to project image of a winner, not about winning the state2128: Another network calling a vital state: Fox News this time, and Wisconsin - home of Romney's vice-presidential pick Paul Ryan. We'll bring you more when we have
@daveweigel Romney-Ryan becomes first presidential ticket to lose both candidates' home states since McGovern-Shriver, 1972
Figures have changed again: Obama is now up to 143 electoral votes, as against Romney's 153, says the BBC.
08:04
CBS is projecting Obama will win Wisconsin
Greg Sargent ?@ThePlumLineGS With WI and PA now Obama's, that really chokes off any paths to 270 for Romney without Ohio. #Election2012 Retweeted by Peter Beinart.
Greg Sargent ?@ThePlumLineGS With WI and PA now Obama's, that really chokes off any paths to 270 for Romney without Ohio. #Election2012 Retweeted by Peter Beinart.
08:02 Obama: 123, Romney: 152. Winning figure: 270
The tally so far is as goes. Obama has a 123 electoral college votes, to Romney's 152. And 270 is what they need to win. Obama can comfort himself with the fact that Ohio (53) to Romney's 46, is swinging in his favour so far. Remember, not Republican has become president without winning Ohio.
07:56 Five wacky Myths about Obama
While we await more results, here's an interesting read on Barack Obama.
No other modern president, it seems, has been the subject of so many outrageous and malicious fabrications. The myths about Obama live on through the years, mostly in chain emails forwarded endlessly across the Internet, despite being debunked over and over again. Here is a look at five of the silliest myths about Obama. Read
No other modern president, it seems, has been the subject of so many outrageous and malicious fabrications. The myths about Obama live on through the years, mostly in chain emails forwarded endlessly across the Internet, despite being debunked over and over again. Here is a look at five of the silliest myths about Obama. Read
07:53 Obama may win Romney's native state Michigan
CNN projects Obama will win Michigan, Romney's native state where his
father served as governor during the 1960s.
(Massachusetts is also considered Romney's home state, where he was governor from 2003-2007).
While CNN expected Michigan to lean Democratic, Romney's team and national Republicans sought to put the state in play, purchasing millions in television advertisements in Michigan in recent weeks.
An EPIC-MRA poll released last week indicated the president had a six-point advantage over Romney.
(Massachusetts is also considered Romney's home state, where he was governor from 2003-2007).
While CNN expected Michigan to lean Democratic, Romney's team and national Republicans sought to put the state in play, purchasing millions in television advertisements in Michigan in recent weeks.
An EPIC-MRA poll released last week indicated the president had a six-point advantage over Romney.
07:50 Obama set to retain Pennsylvania
The BBC says that two US networks are now projecting a big result for Barack Obama: the president to retain Pennsylvania. That comes from CBS News and NBC News. We are yet to call the race.
07:48
NBC says Massachusetts for Elizabeth Warren (D). She replaces Sen. Scott Brown (R). These were Key senate race Democrats were fighting for.
07:46
The BBC says that as per early projections, Republicans will retain their majority in the House of Representatives. If Obama and Romney are tied, that's when the HOuse will come into play.
07:42 Who's got what so far
More results from the BBC: Michigan (which was in play) and New York go to Obama. Kansas, Texas, Louisiana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, and (four out of five electoral votes in) Nebraska go to Romney. None of those states change hands.
It's still too soon to call Wisconsin, Minnesota and Colorado, say all networks everywhere.
But some news: Mitt Romney's home state of Michigan is called for Barack Obama. The Romney campaign had been blowing smoke recently about making a play for Michigan: all hot air.
The networks are calling the following for Mitt Romney: Texas, Louisiana, Kansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska. Meanwhile: Barack Obama has won New York.
It's still too soon to call Wisconsin, Minnesota and Colorado, say all networks everywhere.
But some news: Mitt Romney's home state of Michigan is called for Barack Obama. The Romney campaign had been blowing smoke recently about making a play for Michigan: all hot air.
The networks are calling the following for Mitt Romney: Texas, Louisiana, Kansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska. Meanwhile: Barack Obama has won New York.
07:36
So far, Florida is 49.6: 49.6 after 53% votes counted! Could go either way.
07:33 Obama wins 11 states, Romney nine
So, the story so far is that Barack Obama has won 11 states, and Romney nine. Romney wins 76 electoral votes, Obama 65. There have been no upsets, though Indiana, which went to Romney, has changed hands from four years ago, when it went for Obama.
07:29 Obama wins Connecticut, Maryland, Maine, Rhode Isl
Obama wins Connecticut, Maryland, Maine, Rhode Island: CNN
07:25 'Deeply blue' states vote for Obama: NYT
Most of the states in which US President Barack Obama is headed to be a clear winner are traditionally Democrat states, says New York Times.
States including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Illinois, Connecticut, Delaware and the District of Columbia have always been 'deeply blue', says NYT.
07:25 Neck and Neck so far
A candidate needs 270 seats to win the American Presidency. Obama has 64 electoral votes to Romney's 56 electoral votes!
07:18 Romney wins Arkansas, Alabama and Tennessee: CNN
Romney will win Arkansas, Alabama and Tennessee, according to CNN's projection.
More good news for Republican candidate Mitt Romney!
06:44 Neck and Neck so far
A candidate needs 270 seats to win the American Presidency. Obama has 64 electoral votes to Romney's 56 electoral votes!
06:43 With 50% of the votes counted in Florida
Mitt Romney is ahead 51:49.... Obama has to win Florida!
06:43 Obama wins Connecticut, Maryland, Rhode Island: CNN
No surprises there. The President was expected to win all four states easily.
06:42 With 50% of the votes counted in Florida
Mitt Romney is ahead 51:49.... Obama has to win Florida!
06:40 We left nothing back in the locker room
While interacting with the media, Republican candidate Mitt Romney on Tuesday said that he was "pleased" with his campaign and the effort that his team had put in.
"We brought all of it out on the field. We left nothing back in the locker room. That is why I think we will win," he said.
06:40 Massachusetts, Illinois goes Obama way
Massachusetts, which had Mitt Romney as governor for four years, has decided to back Barack Obama as does Illinois, a state from where Barack Obama was elected to the US Senate.
06:33 Romney will win Indiana, West Virginia: CNN
No surprises there again. The Republican nominee was tipped to win both states easily.
06:28 Early trends indicate Obama leading in Florida, Ohio
Barack Obama needs to win Florida and Ohio if he is to stay on in the White House. Early trends indicate the President is leading in both battleground states, but, as we said, it is early trends yet!
06:18 Romney says he has only written victory speech
While President Obama said he has written two speeches -- one for if he wins, the other for if he loses -- Mitt Romney says he has only written a victory speech. He thinks intellectually he is going to win. Read the story here: http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2012/11/06/romney-ive-only-written-a-victory-speech/
06:08 CNN projects Romney will win West Virginia
CNN has also projected win for Romney in West Virginia.
North Carolina and Ohio -- too close to call at this point. Obama up slightly in Ohio, tied in North Carolina.
05:58 Romney wins Kentucky; Obama wins Vermont: CNN
CNN projects Romney will win Kentucky, Obama will win Vermont
05:36 Obama's goodluck charm: Wins basketball game
Mark Mardell, BBC North America editor, says Obama won a resounding victory today -- his election day basketball game, by 20 points. He must be hoping it's an omen.
05:21 Early trends: Romney leads in Indiana, Kentucky
Although very early hours, but latest trends suggest Republican Romney is leading in Indiana (11 electoral votes) and Kentucky (8 electoral votes), with less than estimated 3 per cent votes in till now.
05:09
It has been an eventful day, to say the least, in the United States today. Click here for all the latest pictures of US presidential elections, right here on Rediff.com.
05:05 Polls close in critical Virginia, Florida
BBC: Polls close at the top of the hour in several states, including two of the most critical battlegrounds in this election: Virginia and Florida.
05:03 'Sad to leave Air Romney'
Garrett Jackson, Romney's "body man" or personal assistant, tweets: "Just landed after our final flight on Air Romney. Sad to leave the plane, it's been my home for the past few months."
04:48 Voting in Texas County extended for two hours
Polls in Galveston County, Texas, are being kept open for an extra two hours because voting machines didn't work properly in the morning, the Houston Chronicle reports.
04:42 Obama expects 10,000 people at his Chicago event
CNN's Brianna Keilar reports from Chicago that the Obama campaign is expecting 10,000 people to attend their main election night event. Tickets have gone to family, friends, VIPs, and thousands of Illinois-based volunteers.
04:20 Romney virtually assured victory in Utah
GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney and Republicans nationwide have some hard-fought battles on their hands during the Tuesday general election. But not in Utah.
Romney is virtually assured a victory in the heavily Mormon state where he oversaw the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, while Republicans in numerous other state and federal races were also poised for wins.
03:45 Stop there!
A sign designating the neutral zone outside of a polling place is pictured during the U.S. presidential election in Dublin, Ohio
Photograph: Matt Sullivan/Reuters
03:27 Voting at a pet store!
A lot many unusual places -- from casinos to launderettes -- have been used as polling stations in US this time around. In this picture, Chicago voter Barbra Hunter is seen casting her ballot at the Urbanimal Pet Store, while 'Oreo' the cat walks by.
Photograph: Jeff Haynes/Reuters
03:17 Why Ohio is the key for Obama, Romney
Washington Post: No one can predict with certainty which candidate will win the 2012 presidential election, but the most likely scenarios in which President Obama or Mitt Romney could reach the 270 electoral votes needed for victory is
If President Obama wins
03:14 Mitt Romney makes time for Wendy's
Washington Post: After stopping at a campaign office in Richmond Heights, Ohio, Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan stopped for some Wendy's.
"What a great day this is. As fun as any. Yesterday, though, was a great day,' Romney told employees. He noted that the burger chain started in the Buckeye State: "We figured because Wendy's was invented in Ohio, what better place to get lunch than Wendy's, right?' One of the workers offered to pay for the Republican ticket's lunch; Romney politely declined.
His last campaign trail lunch: a quarter-pound burger, chili and a Frosty.
Photograph: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters
03:13 Vote, even if you are not in your hometown
The New York National Guard released this photograph of a soldier voting on Tuesday at local polling station after an executive order by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. The order allowed New Yorkers displaced by the storm to vote outside their home districts.
Photograph: Handout/Reuters
03:01 Provisional ballots key if Ohio margin razor thin
CNN: Why does Ohio matter? When it comes to deciding the presidential race, you have probably heard the oft-mentioned narrative: No Republican candidate in recent memory has claimed victory without first winning the Buckeye State. And a diverse state like Ohio, with 18 electoral votes, has long been evenly split between the two parties.
Now add another chapter to the potential drama -- provisional ballots in Ohio that will not be counted until November 17. And yes, the scenario is not far-fetched: If the presidential vote difference in Ohio is razor thin, then absentee, mail-in, and especially provisional votes could delay a final total for perhaps 10 days.
02:21 Economy, tax, Iran: Key issues on US voters' mind
As the two candidates race around the swing states looking for every last vote, let's find out where they stand on each of the key issues.
02:17 The trail of Sandy on Big Day
Voters walk along a sidewalk next to debris from floodwater-damaged buildings on a street next to a damage polling station set up for those affected by Hurricane Sandy, during the U.S. presidential election in Hoboken, New Jersey.
Photograph: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters
02:09 'Never forget the prez who destroyed Afghanistan, Iraq'
BBC reports: In the meanwhile, The deputy chairman of Egypt's ruling Freedom and Justice Party tweets: "Never forget that a president, who was the worst in the US history, destroyed Afghanistan and Iraq; and ruined the world's economy, starting from the USA and Europe."
02:06
BBC reports: To recap, Romney is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, his final campaign stop of the day. He'll then head to Boston to await the results. He was in Ohio earlier with running mate Paul Ryan, where they crossed paths with Vice-President Joe Biden, on a surprise trip to Cleveland.
Obama visited a campaign office in Chicago and will await the results at a convention centre in the city.
02:05 Social media killing the secret ballot?
Caitlin Dewey on Washington Post blog: One of every five registered voters will share how they voted online, according to a new report by the Pew Internet & American Life Project. The report, "Social Media and Voting,' also found that nearly a third of registered voters have been encouraged to vote one way or the other by contacts on Facebook or Twitter '" a number that rises among voters under 30.
If that sounds like a lot of tweets and Facebook posts, you're right. The word "election' has appeared in more than 1.5 million tweets today alone, according to Topsy, and in the past 24 hours, both President Obama and Mitt Romney's names have been tweeted several million times.
The Twitter popularity of the presidential debate in Denver '" 10 million tweets in 90 minutes '" even has some pundits speculating that today's election could be the most-tweeted event of all time. On Facebook, 2.8 million people in the United States have shared they're voting today, and the number is climbing.
02:01 Pennsylvania voting machine turns 'Obama' to 'Romney'
Pennsylvania election officials recalibrated a voting machine this after a Youtube user posted a video of the machine changing his vote, according to MSNBC. The video shows the user, "centralpavote,' repeatedly pushing the Obama button while the machine checks the Romney box.
This is one of many voting irregularities reported across the US today.
01:59 Obama vs Romney: Parallel lives in pictures
BBC presents an extraordinary slideshow on the parallel lives of the two contendors for worlds most powerful post.
01:16 Voter turnout key to Obama's election hopes
BBC's Mark Mardell says: At one of the final Obama rallies, Jay-Z belts out one of his hits with a subtle change of lyric - less offensive, more political. "99 problems but Mitt ain't one."
If President Obama wakes up tomorrow morning with 99 problems, but Mitt ain't one, it won't be down to his campaign. It will be down to his strategy - his plans to get out the vote. That is what Democrats will be doing all day - nagging and dragging people to the ballot box. An amazing 39 million Americans have already voted.
Image: Women pose for pictures with campaign slogans at McCormick Place, the site for Obama's post election speech, during the U.S. presidential election in Chicago
Photograph: Reuters
00:53 Clues could come early in state-by-state battle
NYT's Jim Ruttenberg and Jeff Zeleny say presidential races are decided in the states, and the nation will get an answer to the opposing cases for victory that each candidate has made for so many months. It will finally know, as one of Mr. Obama's top aides has put it, "which side is bluffing' and whether battleground-state polls, which have given Mr. Obama a slim but consistent edge where it matters most, accurately foretold the outcome. As the night unfolds, clues to the outcome will spill out well before the votes are counted.
00:46 Warning, Heavy Democrat turnout, says Ryan
The BBC's Ian Pannell tweets: Republican VP Candidate Ryan sends "URGENT" email warning "heavy Democrat turnout. We have to counteract with a late surge"
00:29 1 dead, 4 wounded in US shooting
AP: One person died and four others, including a suspected gunman, were wounded today when he opened fire at a food service company in Fresno, California, police said. The suspect, a parolee who worked at the firm and was identified as Lawrence Jones, shot himself in the head outside the building and was in critical condition, police said.
Two of the wounded victims were in critical condition and the other was in serious condition. The shooting occurred at the Apple Valley Farms plant in the central part of the city. Apple Valley Farms Inc is a food service equipment company that was established in 2005, according to online business records.
A call to the company went to a voicemail recording that said "due to an emergency we are closed for the day."
00:08 Bookies' choice in US election: Barack Obama
CBC reports: The polls may be open for several more hours, but the gambling community has already spoken and is placing its bets on a victory for Democrat Barack Obama in the US presidential election tonight.
00:07 Voters who will decide US poll
Al Jazeera: An interactive look at the key demographic groups who will decide the fate of the presidential election.
00:05 News as it happens
Top Headlines at this hour:
PHOTOS: Obama or Romney? America begins to vote
Obama congratulates Romney on 'spirited campaign'
Obama weeps at final campaign speech
PICS: Sandy-hit NY, New Jersey vote in large numbers
Brisk polling underway as US chooses its next prez
Emotion outweighs reason as America votes
BJP backs Gadkari again, divisions persist in party
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