Barack Obama elected next U.S. President

The United States of America has elected its first black president as voters went to the polls in record numbers Tuesday. Barack Obama, a 47-year-old Illinois senator defeated his Republican opponent John McCain in an historic election.

The “Campaign for Change” inspired voters from all backgrounds, races, ages and sex. In a Chicago rally, hundreds of thousands of people gathered to hear their President-elect speak after he earned enough electoral votes to be declared winner.

Tears ran down the faces of celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, while young Mohawks in Akwesasne shouted their own joy from online websites like Facebook. Akwesasne voters were expected to break voting records, defying the centuries old Native American tradition of ignoring U.S. politics.

Obama’s win will put an end to the Republican Party’s eight-year run in the White House.

The President-elect took to the stage in Chicago Tuesday night with his wife, Michelle, and children Sasha and Malia, and with careful words he inspired the crowd to cheers and tears.

“If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where any things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive ... who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer,” he said.

“It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America,” he continued.

Obama’s family will take residence at the White House in the New Year, and his children, ages 10 and 7, will be the youngest residents of the historic mansion in years.

“I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation’s next First Lady, Michelle Obama,” he said, and continued with a promise to his daughters:

“Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us to the White House.”