Obama scores big victory

Democrat Barack Obama scored a runaway victory over his rival, Republican John McCain, to become the first black President-elect of the United States of America.



Although only needing 270 Electoral College Votes to win the presidency, Obama won 338 to McCain’s 156 votes.



There were scenes of delight across the United States last night, after news broke that Americans had elected the first black president.



At Grant Park in Chicago where tens of thousands of Obama supporters had gathered, many could not hold back the tears as they experienced the making of history.



The 47 year old Illinois senator appeared with his family, and his running mate Joe Biden to address the crowd waiting anxiously for his response to the victory.



According to Obama the victory had been a long time coming.



Obama captured the key battleground states of Pennsylvania and Ohio.



He also held most of the states that voted Democrat in 2004, as well as seizing at least six from the Republicans, including Florida and Virginia.



While the electoral votes for Obama were overwhelming, Obama and McCain were separated by less than five percent in the popular vote.



Obama therefore used the opportunity to appeal for the support of those who voted for his opponent.



He also praised McCain for his dedication to the country saying he had endured sacrifices for America that most of Americans cannot begin to imagine.



Obama said he was willing to work with McCain and his running mate Sarah Palin to advance the interests of Americans.



Even as Obama celebrated the victory, he acknowledged that there were enormous challenges ahead.



The president elect also made it clear that it would be a new day for American Foreign policy promising individuals around the world that he was willing to work with their governments.



Obama is to be sworn in as president on January 20, 2009.