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Well, as owner of a small business I'm very afraid for what the future holds for my business and my employee's. If my business happens to fail due to taxation from Obama, which I think is a likelyhood, there will be 72 employee's and their families effect by this election, also, if it effects me, just think how many more small businesses will be in jeopardy, guess no one really stopped and concered that…. feeble minded…

K – What are you talking about? Did you see the movie W? I can tell you that Al has about 100% more intelligence than George Bush. Bush ran this country like a cowboy on a bull shot up with steriods. Yee Ha – mission accomplished – NOT!!!

Go Al! Oh Lord – Palin in the Senate? I really don't think she wants to leave her moose hunting grounds. You could see her husband saying last night " Honey – can we please go home now? I'm really tired of this frozen smile I have on and I really miss my Joe six pack friends down by the boat house."

@Dee: are you kidding? Have you ever tallied up who the vast majority of the haters are here? Do it!

It's a sad day in America, when someone as confrontational, hateful and anti-American as this clown Franken, is even competitive in a race at any level of our government! And, don't even get me started on that moron Murtha! My old-school conservative ideals truly do show I am estranged from this country.

I heard this morning that Bill O'Reilly would leave the United States if Franken is elected. I will be glad to help him pack.

A perfect ending to this story would be for Franken to get elected. A comedian getting elected to Congress. I bet if we sent them all big red, round rubber noses they'd actually start wearing them!

All folks who purchased weapons in the last couple of weeks, get ready to put them down. This is a peaceful revolution, so you won't be needing them. The world has already become a safer place… It makes no sense that the Muslims will be attacking one of their own. Obama's openness to talk to Castro and Chavez and his willingness to go easy on illegals (his own aunt is living in the projects illegally) will make everyone out there put down their respective guards and their hatred of the U.S. It will be like the Carter years all over again. John Lennon would be a happy man today. Imagine all the people…

Hello Depdo-crats. When your taxes go up, when the corporations leave the country due to increased corporate taxes and the government starts banning free speech; just remember, you asked for it. So do not start crying, you got what you wished for.

Bob

Hey Mike, a few comments are in order:

1) you are a sore loser.
2) Capitalism pre-dates the USA by thousands of years – it's a lot older than 200 (so is the USA for that matter, so I'm not sure what you consider the birth point of capitalism).
3) Do you really think it's just the media that can convince that many people to vote for Obama, and has nothing to do with anything else? Of course you do… go back to Fox News and ask them why they wern't equally effective for McCain.
4) I don't recall Bin Laden wanting to destroy capitalism – after all, his Islamic Caliphate will rely on global capitalism to keep buying oil. You should You should figure out what you are talking about before you say things (or would that spoil it for you?)
5) If anyone is a threat to democracy and the American Way it's people like you who don't apparantly can't accept that the majority does not always think the same way you do, and that differences of opinion are somehow evil. Grow up, learn something, or crawl back under your rock and stop babbling like an idiot.

Hang in there, Al Franken.

Hey – NOT all Minnesotans wanted " THE BODY" Jessie. I know a lot of people that felt that way. He was and is a joke! I sure did not vote for him!

Unforunately – in this country – he was able to win because of the great system. The same one that let us vote for the first Africian American president yesterday. Congrats to Obama!!!

It is called FREEDOM! And I thank God we have the rights and freedoms that we do. Not every decision made is correct, but we do the best we can in the situations that we are given. If we see something that needs to be fixed – we need to speak up and work towards a change!

I am not sure who will come out a winner on the senate seat today — I am hoping it isn't the clown, but we need to work together no matter what!

Guys for one day, CAN YOU HATERS GIVE IT A REST. President Obama won fair and square. Congratulate him and let us rally around him and pray for him to have wisdom to be a great leader. Sheesh.

You idiots in MN get what you deserve! Al Franken is a joke and the rest of the country is laughing at you. First Jesse 'the Body' as Gov and now a loser radio host. Next thing you know, Stone Cold Steve Austin will be the next Governor for your backward, redneck state! I'm sure every state in the South is proud to know that as long as MN is around, they won't be the dumbest state in the union!

The peace, hope, and love crowd spewing hate all over Alaska and Sarah Palin acting like the D's never did the same thing. I have never seen a woman trashed so bad and there not be an outcry…..think about it. Can you say hypocrites????? Is it that tough to believe that Alaska would rather have a hand picked Republican over a Democrat? Stop looking for Govt. to solve all your problems and stand up for yourself.

Its really getting hard to take.

To Jennifer regarding the move to Canada: They love President Obama there! Go to Alaska with Palin, or maybe to Russia!

GOD BLESS AMERICA – THE UNITED STATES!

It looks like congratualtions are in order:

1. First…congratualtions President-elect Barack Obama.
2. Congratualtions to Sen. John Mccain…you are a hero.
3. Congratulations to the main stream media (cnn msnbc cbs abc)….you have finally through your propoganda and bias elected the candidate you wished to lead. Yes, you are risking millions of lives by serving your own self interest…but who cares about that.
4. Finally, congratulations to Osama Bin Laden. In a mere 8 years, your war against a 200 year old institution known as capatilism has been won. Well, really, the american people surrendered. I don't know if you are still alive or where you are, but what can you say, you were right…us Americans have no resolve to fight.

At least Elizabeth "Pineapple" Dole didn't get re-elected.

What is wrong with the people of Alaska?

Phil in KC: Missouri hasn't been called yet because McCain is up by about 5800 votes, yet approximately 7000 provisional ballots were cast. (These numbers are from an article on stltoday.com that I read about an hour ago). Thus, if (and this is an extremely big if) all the provisional ballots were counted and Obama got more than 6400, that would put him over the top in Missouri. We all know it's probably not going to happen, but it's still a mathematical possibility and thus Missouri is still gray.
-Jon (former Kirksville, Rolla, and St. Louis area resident, now out of state)

How on earth is Stevens ahead?! The man belongs in prison along with Governor Palin.

How sad that "some" of you republicans live in fear and are so closed minded that you can't appreciate what's truly going on in this country. It's not us vs. you, rich vs. poor, black vs. white….we're ALL Americans, and we ALL love our country. McCain ran a divisive and hateful campaign,trying to tell us whose American and who's not, and by the overwhelming margin of victory for President Obama, the "true" America doesn't believe that!! This country has faltered under the current administration…but not anymore. Get on board and work as one to make it better again, or just shut up!!! You're either part of the solution or you're part of the problem!!

Being an outsider I was very proud of my American friends with the results they gave themselves yesterday. The entire world is overjoyed with Obama being elected as they see hope for the world in the near future.

I was a little sad to see the people voting to deny gays equal rights but maybe in another 100 years Americans will finally learn people are just people and one is just as good as any other.

Can we recount Michele Bachmann's election? That along with Norm Coleman's bid should be scrutinized to the highest inth.

And what does it say about Alaska that they RE-ELECTED a convicted senator? I'll bet Palin gave him some tips on that one!!

Corruption is as corruption does, I guess.

GO OBAMA!! YES. WE. DID.!!!

With a possibly narrow victory by senator Ted Stevens in Alaska the rumor going round is that Gov Sarah Palin will appoint herself to US Senate instead of someone else to take Stevens place. This would give her the additional experience for a 2012 run at the White House.

So what if Stevens got re-elected. He was endorse by Colin Powell at his trial. That is all he needs, right?

I guess the poster Lindsey is Lindsey Graham from NC – another Republican fascist Nazi masquerading as a champion of democracy.

The GOP (Grand OIL Party) needs to got the way of the Dodo bird.

We need the two parties to be Democrat and Green. THAT'S the way forward for the USA.

Any unhappy Republicans can move to Saudi Arabia, where they'll be with fellow fundamentalist nuts – just not of the same religion.

Alaskans have elected an 85 year old convicted felon to represent them in the Senate. Of course he has brought them 3.4 billion dollars in earmarks from Washington over the years. Is this the good ole boy network Palin bragged about breaking up – or politics as usual? I truly hope Palin and Stevens are not the best and the brightest that Alaska has to offer.

Go Al Franken!! Thank God for automatic recounts!!

Alaskan voters are sending that Republican thug and criminal Stevens back to the Senate for another term. They really are THAT stOOpid up there… and I do mean stupid with TWO 'O's!!

Also amazing that Sarah Palin was found innocent by her own staff… because THEY were impartial and didn't have a vested interest in the outcome of the Troopergate investigation by the HR Board. And they have the nerve to say the Legislative investigation of 8 Repubs and 4 Dems WAS partial. Unbelievable corruption…

ALASKA IS TURNING OUT TO BE THE LAND OF OIL AND CORRUPTION… AND NOT EXACTLY IN THAT ORDER EITHER!!!

Stevens is no sleezier than Dodd , who also accepted favors and never reported them and Rangel, who didn't pay his taxes. The only difference is that Stevens has an R next to his name. Nevertheless, he should not be seated and a replacement should be found.

However, I think Alaskans voted for him because they have come to the conclusion that the trial was basically flawed. Prosecurial misconduct, the lying juror, the failure to hold it with a jury of his peers (in Alaska, where the "crimes" took place) – just to name a few. Good chance this will be overturned on appeal.

People of the 6th District of Minn: ARE YOU CRAZY?

You elected Bachmann again! Shame, SHAME!

Stop drinking the neocon kool-aid of "fear, smear, mock and LIE", the rest of America did. In case you didn't get the memo – the "real" Americans think the "anti-American" rantings of Bachmann belong in the dust heap of fail ideas along with fascism, racism and McCarthyism (now-a-days known as Bachmannism)

Again, SHAME ON YOU 6th District voters. I'm sure you'll get the political hack you deserve with your votes…

I hope everything Obama says he is going to do he does. there havebeen many promised alot and never delivered so its going to be a waiting game for the American people to actually see what happens. I think those so called Ameican people out there that want to talk trash and make fun of John McCain should think about what they would have done differently while being held captive for years, and stayed true to the USA. Please dont slam the man now. Let it go you got what you all wanted a change. LETS SEE THE NEW CHANGE AND THEN TALK.

Tomkat—

I'm pretty sure it is the latter. They have replaced Florida.
So, get ready for Senator Sarah Palin. You betcha.

J Gosh–I would have voted for Obama if he was purple. Green. Orange. I would have voted for him if he had two heads, or even if he had emitted a Howard Dean squeal at a rally. I did not vote for Obama because he was an African American–I voted for him because he was the best candidate for the job. Because he is smart, educated, and was the best person to lead this country. Because he restores dignity to a country that has been ravaged by corruption, lies and personal agendas for the past eight years. To say that people voted for him because he was black is an ignorant, uninformed statement and it makes you look silly. Think about it before you utter it in public. We voted for Obama because we needed him.

Ted Stevens with a good chance of winning??? just shows more creditable evidence as to why Americans sent Palin packing back to the tundra to shoot moose and continue to overpopulation of the Earth. I guess the good people of Alaska are not the sharpest tacks in the box. Of course, I have to contend with my fellow Minnesotan's who were dumb enough to put Michelle Bachman back in Washington – looks like a portion of my state contains stupid blind people as well. America, please don't judge all of us from Minnesota based on the stupid people of Congressional District 6 who apparently, like 49% of the people in Alaska, would vote for the Anti Chirst as long as s/he was a Republican.

Go Al Franken – We need someone good to replace Wellsone's seat, not a Bush hand picked clone!

Also, while we are at it, let's get a new Gov in MN – Our current one is also a discrase (anyone see him on Fox "not really the" News? He needs to go too!

Al, if the recount does not go your way, run for Gov!

AK Voter – I guess you deserve all the shady politicians that you’ve elected to office up there in Alaska.
You’ve got a governor with a “wink & a smirk”, and senator who repeatedly helped himself to some goodies from old friends…

Thank you Jesus that Al Franken is not a Senator!!!!!! At least we have a few things to celebrate, those of us on the right that is.

Is the Democrat in Alaska that bad, or are Alaskans really that stupid? After listening to the rantings of Sarah Palin, I believe it to be the latter…

Tomkat

To all "REPUBLICANS" I want you to go take a looke at the pictures of Obama last night in Chicago. I didn't see ALL white grunpy old men and ALL white woman who don't have to work because their husbands are rich. I saw races of all color, and that was the best part of Obama's victory, It was all americans happy, crying, singing and dancing, as a matter of fact I saw more of other races then blacks. McCain fought a hard fought and I commend him for that. But when he spoke last night he made ONE mistake, He said he "knows" the pride that african americans feel because Obama won, but what he failed to say is the entire USA feels a since of pride not just african americans. He broke the color and I am so very very proud of him. And I'm proud of those who went out there and voted for change.

McCain/Palin you two are leaving in a totally diffrent world then the average american. And the bottome line is you just don't get it.
And that is the main reason you lost, you tried to divided and conquer and it back fired. I never not once saw McCain/Pailn in black communities or lation communitites, he didn't want the black vote because him and his party hate black people and blame us for the failures of their own party. I am so glad a change came, I am just so happy.

There's something seriously wrong with the data concerning the GA senate seat.

There are more than 130,000 votes, or nearly 5% of the vote, which has a vote recorded for president but doesn't have a vote recorded for senate.

There's no other race that has anywhere near that level "no vote" for the senate, and GA was a tossup senate seat – implying it would have generated more interest than average, not less.

Where are the other 130,000 votes?

RE: Jose Head

"All the Obama supporters crying about Ted Stevens. Where were you when Alcee Hastings was elected?"

Maybe its because Alcee Hastings was acquitted in crimal court… So far as Marion Barry, why should D.C. care what anybody thinks… they don't have any rights as far as the US Government is concerned.

The problem with some people, from both sides, is that they would rather fight over something from 20 or 30 years ago than recognize the reality of what's happening today. It adds nothing to the current debate and is a distraction to progress.

It is truly amazing how many people are bitter and nasty in these posts, even when it is their party which is victorious. Posting negative comments doesn't help anyone, and generally alienates people who may otherwise have shared your view.

As far as Stevens goes – No matter the outcome of his trial the facts remain that the prosecution handled themselves very poorly and that has cast doubt in the mind of many Alaskan voters as to the validity of his conviction. This coupled with the fact that he is appealing the verdict means that to many Alaskans he is not a convicted felon as such, but rather a wrongfully prosecuted man who deserves the opportunity to explore his options. Another thing to consider is that many individuals don't believe that a filibuster-proof majority would be a good thing, I certainly don't. This more than any other reason I think is why Alaska voted to keep Stevens in office. Even if he is replaced, it keeps at least *one* of the checks and balances in place and keeps America from getting steamrolled by a new party.

As for Begich – He is a truly awesome man. If he were a Republican I would have voted for him over Stevens in a heartbeat. My biggest reason for voting Republican on a personal level is because I am concerned for my second amendment rights. Begich supports those rights and that is good, however historically speaking the rest of the Democratic party has not.

As for Palin – Most of America does not know about or has conveniently forgotten about the corruption and scandal that erupted up here in Alaska before she was elected Governor. She ran on a platform of "Openness and Honesty" which got her elected. She has stood up to the entrenched GOP leadership and told them "This is not the way." and if the Republican party is going to reinvent itself then it will come as no surprise if Palin is in the middle of it all.

She has been an able Governor and many Alaskans feel nothing but pride for her. She has received quite a bit of negativity locally since she joined the McCain ticket, and I think it probably harmed her politically because her policy of openness and honesty was hobbled by her "handlers" in the party. Now that she is coming back to Alaska I hope that she will return to her old ways of doing business and that both Alaska and American can move forward.

Alaska, you've miserably failed in your gubernatorial selection of Palin, and now you’re doing it again with a possible selection of a convicted felon…

Alaska elected a convicted felon, Ted Stevens, to the Senate. ? He can be a senator but can not vote????????. This tells us all we need to know about Palin and Alaska.

Stevens needs to win so that Sarah can appoint a good republican to stop the fillibuster proof Senate as the only moderates left in the Senate are in the republican party.

Good bye Mrs. Palin …

I hope you run again in 2012 so that Barack will win again.

Your brand of divisive, mean spiritied, LYING, "Us – versus -them",, Pro-American vs Anti-American, Real Americans -vs-fake Americans, …. politics has been rejected by the American people.

With the influx of young people into the political process this year and with the continuing "browning" of the American population, your sort of subtle racial appeals will continue to fail. We are one nation and the GOP will no longer win by stoking fear and division. Have a brain and bring some detailed solutions.

You are done. Stay in Alaska. We don't want you on the national scence anymore.

NO FRANKEN, NO STEVENS.

I'm an Independent who wants the Dems to reach 60 seats!!

Congradulations Mr. Obama. I breath a sigh of relief knowing that this country is now on a course to correct 8 years of neglect and profiteering by government.

To Mr. McCain, your concession speech was wonderful. You showed grace in defeat, and I hope that you will work with our new president in order to solve the problems we face as a nation, and not as some suggest, simply work against him for no other reason than to hinder his progress.

To all of you, the progress made by our new leaders will be the progress made by yourselves over the next 4 years. If all you want to do is get in the way, you hurt yourselves as much as anyone else. And that too will be remembered come November 2012.

YES WE DID REALIZE THE DREAM OF YESTERDAY

THIS MORNING AS DROVE MY KIDS TO SCHOOL, I TALKED TO THEM ABOUT THE HISTORIC EVENT OF OBAMA'S ELECTION TO THE HIGHEST OFFICE IN OUR LAND. TO MY SURPRISE THEY COULD NOT UNDERSTAND WHY I WAS SO SCHOK AND HAPPY THAT I HAD LIVED TO SEE THE FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN PRESIDENT ELECT. ON THE WAY BACK HOME IT CAME TO ME, THAT MY KIDS THROUGH THEIR INNOCENT EYES SAW THE REALIZED DREAM LONG BEFORE WE DID AS A NATION; THEY ARE A NEW GENERATION OF AMERICAN THAT WILL FOREVER BE JUDGE BY THE CONTENT OF THEIR INTELLECT AND NOT THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN. AT THE END OF THE DAY WE ARE ALL AMERICAN, ALL LOVE THEIR COUNTRY, ALL PATRIOTIC.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

Congratulations President Barack Obama. You have earned it.
You say it is people's victory, but no Sir… This is your victory.
You are the only qualified person and American people elected you.
It was a nasty and evil campaign run by your opponent and not only did he loose..but he lost all his credibility and respect.
This is a lesson for all the Biased, Racistic people in America… America stands for Justice and Justice well served.
I still cant believe how 48 Million people flocked to the polling booths for a worthless candidate like McCain. I would love to see some of their sad faces now.
It is time to celebrate and Sir. Barack Obama – Once again congratulations. You represent Americans and please bring back the respect, faith, prosperity in this country

Even if it doesn't matter at this point, I would still like to see Obama win Missouri.

There's the problem with politics today – so many people vote based on party and not on politician. Former Republican, it's okay to support Barack and not support Franken. Just because there's someone you don't like who so happened to be the Democratic nominee for a state position doesn't mean that the party is broken. Vote based on the politician and the job you think they will do in the office they may hold. Even if you vote primarily Republican or Democratic, it doesn't mean you have to completely switch parties in order to vote for someone of the opposite party. That's the beauty of the system – you can vote for WHOMEVER you want, regardless of party politics!

The Stevens situation is unfortunate, but strategically necessary. Since it was the general election with the filibuster-proof "super majority" at stake there were two choices. Elect Stevens knowing he would be replaced by a Republican governor or elect the Democrat when almost absolute control of government could be at stake. If it was a primary election or there only state representation at stake he would not have won.

To the people of Alaska: Thank You for making the hard choice, seeing the bigger picture and allowing a small amount of control on a single party in power.

We're purple here in NC!

@ jared. you'll get your wish soon enough. with obama in the white house, we won't have to give alaska to russia, they'll just take it. the russians probably won't stop there, so we'll be reunited with alaska eventually, but under the flag of a hammer and sickle with comrade obama leading the way.

I feel so much more secure with Barack Obama as our President.
I have full confidence that he will lead this country out of its crisis.
This is the first election that i`ve followed all the way. My husband and i also became citizen this year and we are so proud to become a part of this historic event. We are very proud of him and we will certainly support him all the way.

I'm not sure why MO has not been called. The graphic indicates 100% of the results are in with McCain holding a slim lead. I've not heard that there will be a recount, so it seems to me they may as well just put MO in the McCain column. Obama does not need it to win, so you may as well throw McCain a bone. There goes Missouri's bellweather status. It is now officially more conservative than VA – or, apparently, NC, for that matter. Since both NC and IN seem to be going Obama's way at this point.

I feel so much more secure with Barack Obama as our President.
I have full confidence that he will lead this country out of its crisis.
This is the first election that i`ve followed all the way. My husband and i also became citizen this year and we are so proud to become part of this historic event. We are very proud of him and we will certainly support him all the way.

Indiana goes now to Obama – its official.

Elect. votes now 349 for Obama.

History was made!!!!!! That's all I have to say.

Fired UP!

Ready to GO!!

for the first time in my life, the state i live in has gone blue in a presidential election… YES WE DID!!

Democrat in a Blue Florida

Electing Felons! They do it in Boston all the time!!!

The young people of this country are very much being deceived by the Democratic Party. They do not really understand the full complication of the issues Obama wants to push through the Presidential seat. This Presidential race has turned out to be more of a lets elect an African American in the Presidential office to make history. I can say this because people have admitted this was the reason for them voting the way they did. I am happy we have turned the pages of history and elected the first African American as President, however we did it for the wrong reasons. People needed to look into the issues this man stands behind, they are not values to be proud of. For the next four years America will be digging deep into their pockets to pay for the plans Obama is going to enforce on the American people. You asked for change you got it. As for the Senate race I can see why the people of Alaska would reelect Stevens. They did it to save the Republican seat and the keeping the Democrats from gaining control over the filibuster process and squelching the voice of all the people.

How ironic that Al Franken running for the Senate is a joke.

Australian Election Observer – Thanks. Personally, I'm glad that Obama won. A little concerned about the fact that the Dems have an overwhelming control of the Senate and Congress. The Dems have a tendency to over reach at times. If they do so this time, I believe they will lose control of one or both houses (Congress or Senate) in 2010. I hope Obama does realize this and can keep the members of his party in check. A lot of people (like me) voted for Obama because of the following reasons:
1. He ran a very honorable campaign (sadly, McCain did not)
2. McCain's pick of VP baffled a lot of people (IMHO the only reason she was picked was because she's good looking and could get the Social Conservatives excited – moderates and independants were put off).
3. During the September economic crises, Obama kept his cool and showed true grit and grace under fire. McCain kept bouncing around like a excitable kid.

I'm sure Obama will do well (I should say I'm very hopeful)

I never thought of that, Warren. Double-dipping at the public trough would be more lucrative, wouldn't it?

If he loses, perhaps Franken could get his old job back at SNL… he was funnny as a comedian and they could use his writing skills. It'd be a win-win for the country.

Are you ready to move?
With all that redistribution of wealth about to happen, the blacks will soon be moving into the white ranch-houses in the 'burbs, and the whites will be moving into the black-shacks on the other side of the tracks. So, start packing!

Peace to everyone !

It's a great thing that the Dems will not get to close to the 60-seat majority in the senate. They will actually have to work with the other side if they want to get something done.

It's time that Reid, Pelosi et al, learn that "We hate Bush" and "We hate Republicans" theme is not a program or platform.

I suspect that Obama's agenda will be more moderate, bipartisan and inclusive (like his campaign promises) rather than highly partisan and to the far left (like his record). The lack of a bulletproof majority in the senate is the key to that.

All Al Franken had to do to win the MN senate race was to issue a statewide apology to women and minorities for his SNL writings. The only apology that he issued was to the DFL convention delegates.

Even though I wanted to vote for Franken, I could not vote for someone who authored comedic skits on rape.

Al Franken, go back to being a writer.

I just got to say, McCain never had a chance in the first place. He is the LEAST conservative Republican.
Second, his pick of Sarah Palin as a ploy ONLY to get Hillary voters (stupid, didn't they realize the whole Hillary thing was going to fade off eventually, and they were going to be stuck with Palin for good?). Third, how can you run on a change platform, when you're all about negative attacks? What were they running on besides earmarks (Palin BELIEVES in them, by the way), a $5000 credit, and energy? That's not much of a platform.
Fourth, a lot of McCain supporters were just as crazy as Rev. Wright himselft, shouting "kill him" "traitor" "off with his head", look at how they were last night during the concession speach, still shouting through McCain's goodbye to them. That scares other willing voters away, and McCain and Palin should have put a stop to all that booing and hate for their own appeal.
Fifth, all the catchy slogans were irritating. Joe this Joe that. Maverick, gotcha journalism, all that junk they were spewing was a waste to people that hungered for change, new ideas and policies.
Finally, McCain's age and having Palin as his successor. People wanted a safe-bet ticket. Had he picked Romney or Huckabee, McCain could have moved forwad, but too many folks were scared of Palin as their commander-in-chief. Lieberman would have accepted VP and McCain could have pulled in dems right and left, possibly.
Obama definately set the precident on how elections will be run from here on out. It's going to be tough to fill his shoes, but let's hope the Republicans can learn from their mistakes, and quit trying so hard.

palin, i hope you are not scheming to make your dream to be the leader of the senate by encouraging ted to contest so that when he is knocked out at the senate, you will hop yourself in. I saw frustrations and pains in your face last night at the great Mccain's speech. you were even forcing yourself to smile. It's a pity your dreams are shattered and shattered permanently. there is no more future for you at the national level. you are hereby confined permanently to Alaska. Q.E.D.Watch and see what your dirty mouth will bring to you. you will be exposed and then you will know that you study politics and not just jump into it. Bye Palin.

Or Marion Barry?

The Senate's approval ratings are low enough…

Gee whiz:

All the Obama supporters crying about Ted Stevens. Where were you when Alcee Hastings was elected?

As a non-American I am overwhelmed by feelings, long rusticated, of love and respect for America, the beacon of light in the world. I shed tears of joy as I listened to Obama's acceptance speech, and wished that my old friend Jimmy Baldwin could have shared the moment with his comrades in struggle. Thank God almighty, free at last.

We need to try and win the seat otherwise it will filibuster city with the republicans. We have witnessed 94 over the past two years, how sad that the republicans would obstruct getting any work done that did not include their interest and benefit them.

A side note, what does it say about republicans re-electing a 7 time felon in Alaska. These for sure God's people, arn't they? I think not!

If christians back criminals, condone war (I thought christians were pro life), against social programs that help feed the poor, heal the sick, and generally support God's people, then your can have christianity, they are hypocraites.

I will listen to God's word and not hypocracy!

John McCain's concession speech was probably the most incredible speech I have ever heard.

I truly believe he ran the campaign he was forced to run, not the campaign he wanted to run.

He actually seemed excited to be part of the transformation sweeping across America, to see Obama become president.

The only thing that can stop America now is if Democrats start gloating over their victory and Republicans refuse to embrace the potential for hope, peace and prosperity that Obama embodies.

The right wing Facists can move to that new country,Alaska with Sarah.

I am commenting here because I can't on the other article that pertains to Franken. I am from Minnesota, and am proud that Franken has hung on in this election. I have seen him speak,I have heard his arguements, and he is a better man than Norm Coleman any day. We have been able to see what Norm Coleman can do first hand in Minnesota, and the answer is nothing, he can do nothing. Like the rest of the country who called for change when they so greatly elected Obama, we too were sick of the same old thing.

If you want to be ashamed of us for potentially electing a "lunatic" just look at all the people at the Paln rallies where people were chanting such things as terrorist, and kill him, while she stood there and did nothing. Pot calling the kettle black if you ask me.

Responding to Jessica: a state cannot impeach or otherwise remove a U.S. Senator. No matter what a state's constitution may say, the U.S. Constitution does not provide any mechanism or authority for a state (or its citizens) to remove a Senator. Once elected and seated the only way to get rid of a Senator is for the Senate to expel him. In this regard, I would point out that the Senate Minority Leader, Mitch McConnell, has already made it very clear that if Stevens does not resign he will be expelled.

I am commenting here because I can't on the other article that pertains to Franken. I am from Minnesota, and am proud that Franken has hung on in this election. I have seen him speak,I have heard his arguements, and he is a better man than Norm Coleman any day. We have been able to see what Norm Coleman can do first hand in Minnesota, and the answer is nothing, he can do nothing. Like the rest of the country who called for change when they so greatly elected Obama, we too were sick of the same old thing.

If you want to be ashamed of us for potentially electing a "lunatic" just look at all the people at the Paln rallies where people were chanting such things as terrorist, and kill him, while she stood there and did nothing. Pot calling the kettle black if you ask me.

History is made in American. This victory will change the image of American for the better all over the world. Let us celebrate , work together and help President Obama to make American a better place for all of us.
Congratulation United States of America, we all have a story to tell our children and grandchildren..

No, Michele, Sarah Palin will name her husband Todd to the seat so HE can be the incumbent, and she stays governor. Not that he'll do anything, the Palins just like getting paid for stuff they don't actually do!

Viva Obama! Adios Weird Al!
It was all I could do to switch parties and support Barack. But if Franken-Berry pulls this one off, the shock will be too much for me and I might switch back.

If this idiot Franken wins it just proves that Dems truly have lost all sense of reason and intelligence.

Obama will do well, trust me.

If Stevens wins, even his own party leader has said he's out. Palin will appoint herself to fill the seat until a special election can be held, by Alaska law I think that's within 90 days, then she can run as an incumbent. Wonder how that will go over? It will be interesting to watch.

Pauletta,

It happens sometimes in a democracy, someone you don't like wins. I did the same as you are planning – since 2000 (even before the election) I turned the TV off every time Bush's face showed up. I knew he was an evil man. In your case, though, Obama's policies will be very close to those of Hillary. So is it a personality issue with you? Hopefully the government will run smoothly, we'll get out of this mess, and those who now hate Obama will at least respect him.

It is unbelievable that Alaskans would elect a convicted felon back to the Senate. Is there no sense of honor left, where someone can commit a crime and people say "oh well"?

Alaska voters rewarding Stevens (R) are just as bad as LA voters electing that criminal Jefferson (D) and DC voters electing that criminal Marion Barry (D) and FL voters electing disgraced Alcee Hastings (D). Nothing chnages, even Obama can't make POLs better. hang on to your wallets america the next 4 years are going to be dreadful. .

@ PAULETTA LECHMAN ……. Too bad that you are so bitter, Pauletta. When we hold grudges the one we hurt is ourselves. Even thought you wanted, Hillary, the Nation did not. Accept that other people had a different vision and you will be at peace. Bitterness, Pauletta, will not help America. We are in a crisis and we all need to work together to help our Nation move forward into the future.

PAULETTA, I will pray for you, you seem to be a very sad person.

TO ALL WHO DID NOT VOTE FOR OBAMA:

PLEASE give our new president a chance. Just like when in 2000 we gave Bush a chance!

Pauletta, I understand you're upset. But you know, I can say all I want to that St. Louis "should have" won the 1987 World Series because they're my favorite team, but the fact is that Minnesota put more runs on the board. It's the same story with Clinton and Obama – sure, she was your preferred candidate, but the people have spoken and your side was outnumbered. Fair's fair.

Congrats USA on an excellent choice in Barack Obama.
I wonder how US citizens feel about the balance of power issues though? Do you hope the dems get the power or do you think it would be healthier to have a balance?

It's amazing how many idiots there are with computers.

It's really a shame that the Democrats won't hit 60 seats in the Senate. That really would have been change we can believe in.

President-elect Obama is really going to have his hands full, so the more tools he can have at his disposal, and the more the skids can be greased for making change, the better.

I could care less about the "magic" number of 60. Political parties are not even in our wonderful Constitution.

The founders of our country wanted a balance of power between the three branches of government. A balance of power between political parties is a poor substitute.

Our government is designed to serve the people, not the political parties.

Truthfully, Franken is probably should not be a Senator, however Stevens DEFINATELY should not be a Senator…

What is INSANE is that Alaskan voters look like they've returned a CONVICTED CRIMINAL to the Senate!

Wow – real idiots up there. They had Palin – religious nut – as their Governor and now this???!? The state of Alaska is a lost cause. I say we give it to Russia as a new province.

Well, to all the bible thumping religious right wing self centered zealots from Texas to North Dakota who thought they would never see the day , and I am being kind here, a man of color is elected as President……..(i really want to say you loose) but after listening to President elect Obama's acceptance speech I realize you, yes you, actually won. You won a President that will heal the divides you created and move our country back into the prominence it belongs. You won a President that will heal our country and improve our standing in the world community and improve the lives of us all. You think you lost the election but in reality you actually won.

All of you who voted for Obama may be very sorry.Race is not the issue.I just can't stand him.Hiliary should have been our President,NOT OBAMA,and I will not even consider it.When he is on tv,my tv will be turned off.

MN has a mandatory re-count based on the close race. AP is calling Coleman the winner.

I hope Franken loses…

Franken in not a senator.

I send my congratulations out to America's new political appointees. I just hope and pray they find a way to come together as Americans, not separated like we are today as republicans and democrats. We need to be united.

Garth, the Constitution allows for Congress to expel a member based on a vote. This has occurred five times in the nation's history, the most recently in 2002. Whether this occurs with Stevens would remain to be seen, but unless he goes to jail and cannot fulfill his office I would suspect it doesn't.

Are the residents of Alaska that ignorant?

Stevens is a convicted felon and you vote for him?

Now we know why Palin is your governor.

I'm amazed so little has been made of the Supreme Court during this election. We probabky all know the happiest man and woman in the U.S. today. The second happiest man is probably John Paul Stevens, and the second happiest woman Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Those of us who fear an imbalanced Supreme Court can breathe a sigh of relief.

Stevens is a FELON. How truly unrighteous so many in Alaska were voting for this shell of a man. I just hope the final count trumps him out of office. America can't afford any more felonious crooks like Stevens.

Hank from Florida is right. Al Franken is not a Senator. He has not held a political office. CNN you should know this, and should not state under his picture that he is a Senator from MN, he is not.
If anyone watched the debates between Coleman and Franken, they would have seen Franken does not have enough knowledge or experience.
However, Obama does and Congrats to him.

Thank Goodness, I now can leave the TV on when the President is speaking. What a great country we live in and the younger people have gotten a headstart on their interest in it because on this election.

Bozo the clown needs to back off

Praise the Lord! Perhaps HE ( or SHE) did send Barrack Obama to save us. The first half white, half black man to win the presidency and heal the great divide that begin with the Founders original sin of slavery. He has the power now with a majority in the Congress so let the Democrats take us in a new direction and make no excuses for failure!

THE FIX WAS IN FOR OBAMA. sO LETS MOVE ON. NEXT UP ALL THE LAW SUITS AGAINST HIM.

Its like electing a kennedy in MA….It is strictly by name didnt Ted kill a young woman and look where he is

Anyone have some insights on the amount of absentee/early voting ballots that are in play, and if any of those have been counted in these races?

I know in one close race locally I am watching, they have not even started to count absentee ballots

Please answer the question, Sarah Palin. Did you support fellow Republican Ted Stevens or did you not support him. I think it's important to find out now who's team you are on and not wait for the outcome of the vote. Answer the question Sarah. You were running for National Office, that takes away you're privacy right when it comes to where you stand on issues and who you do and do not support. What are you afraid of Sarah. Did you not receive a cue card for this question?

Awwwwww! Al Franken didn't win.

Congratulation All Americans for what u have shown the world that America is your beloved country and it was really in of change, true change now is there. God bless a.ll of u, and get united as always.

how wonderful that this country gets a new chance. i disagree with the republican philosophy and i will not/ do not vilify them (well, i try not to!). the opportunities afforded to all us by Obama's election are also afforded to the republicans- they now get a chance to go back and reflect on what they need to do so they can bring their ideas to the 21st Century, the need to stop being the white party, they need to communicate their philosophy in a clear manner and not just as anti-democrat or anti-socialist. just as the democrats will take this opportunity to show that they are not going to govern in reaction to the republicans, but that they will govern in an intelligent manner, informed by a philosophy which includes the deep abiding belief in the principles this country was founded on.

If nothing else, I would hope that this election would serve to be a repudiation of "voodoo economics" aka "supply side economics" aka "corporate welfare". Think about what you have been paying for gas, think about your tax dollars being given to big oil companies and think about your tax dollars spent for military security of big oil in foreign lands. When Exxon-Mobile makes $15,000,000,000, that's 15 billion in 3 months, maybe they could fund their own security and wean themselves from corporate welfare.

Trickle down hasn't worked for our economy since the days of the Hoover presidency, didn't work for Reagan and didn't work for Bush. The near complete "deregulation" that's coupled to supply side economics has just contributed to the greatest economic disaster since the great depression. Near total deregulation in a capitalist country leads to near total GREED. The greedy have overplayed their hand and their ownership of our government has been taken back by the true owners of the government-we the people.

Actually, if Alaska is one of the few states where the governor doesn't get to appoint a senatorial replacement. The scandal about Frank Murkowski appointing his own daughter to his senate seat after he was elected governor is what allowed Sarah Palin to get the Republican nomination and why the law was changed.

Stevens is still in the race? And that close??

What is wrong with you Alaskans?

Oh…wait…I know another goof ball from Alaska….

Garth from Canada, Ted Stevens won't be thrown out of Senate, because there is no law preventing felons or ex-felons from holding office. You are prevented from voting, but can hold office. In all realities, there has been some political pressure for him to step down, but he has repeatedly stated that he will not do so. Given that he has been in office longer than any other politician in the state of Alaska, going back even to before Alaska was a state, it is unlikely that unless the vote falls to Begich, that he won't take his office. Though Impeachment proceedings are possible by the people of Alaska, if he is elected to the office, it is highly unlikely that Impeachment proceedings would begin, much less succeed. Hope that answers your question.

Who are these idiots voting for a convicted felon in Alaska? Maybe we should let them secede.

Hope Franken wins! Would have rather seen Jack Nelson-Palmeyer representing the Dems…but I certainly hope Al can pull this off!

If Alaska re-elects a convicted felon, that explains Sarah Palin!

I can't believe the Alaska Senate race is even close… let alone that Stevens is currently LEADING. I know people get used to voting for a name (dead men have won many an election… including as recently as 2000 in Missouri), but STEVENS!

A filibuster proof senate would be a travesty — the whole point of a multi-party system is to prevent power hungry politicians from having control without checks and balances. Obama will be a wonderful president, but a Democrat controlled congress, senate and presidency would be a disaster for everyone. Those who think we can survive a single-party system are foolish and need to study their history better.

Missouri will go to McCain, North Carolina and Indiana will go to Obama by the looks of it. Very close race though but the results are (barring a recount) there.

No 60 Senate seats for the Democrats, but the majority in both houses and the White House should be enough to get things done.

Congratulations America, you have given yourself new hope and a chance of a better future. Also, in the process you have given this to the world as well. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

I am writing to express my gratitude to CNN for their excellent coverage of all of the news. CNN should receive the highest award offered in the profession for its objective coverage of ALL news. During this election cycle of 2 years, I could always depend on CNN to give it to me with, what else, "no bias-no bull." Thank you and congratulations a job well done!

If Stevens from Alaska wins, their is either removed by the Senate or steps down, Gov. Sarah Palin will get to appoint a replacement to fulfill his 6-year term.

Back to the hinterlands, Caribou Barbie! Vile plumber, begone! PUMAS, slink away with your tails between your legs! Lieberman leave town! President Barack Obama!!!!!!! Free at last!!!!

I so hope that Chambliss gets dumped. If he doesn't get a majority, at least we'll have another opportunity in a run-off to get rid of him. What a horrible politician AND person he is.

Doesn't look like it will get to 60. There will be Republicans who will decide to do the right thing and keep this country moving forward, I am certain.

Also, I really wouldn't call Liberman a Dem any longer, so don't count him in with the "majority". He lost a ton of respect and his luster has faded. He really went all in with this war as his only priority . . .

Yes we Did!

I am absolutely *shocked* that Ted Stevens is anywhere near a victory in his fight for the Senate seat. Given the fact that the House majority leader, Harry Reid, has said the Senate will kick out/impeach Ted Stevens, and the fact that the Governor can appoint anyone she chooses to fill that empty Senate seat if Stevens wins…… I'm really concerned that she's going to appoint herself to the Senate and continue to promulgate her messages of hate and divisiveness.

FYI: the expression is "neck-and-neck" referring to the position of horses' necks in a horse race. It is not "neck in neck" which sounds kind of weird and icky.

Go, Al Franken! I sure hope these states chose wisely. :O

I'm a 60 year old white woman and I've never been prouder of my country and the citizens that make this great democracy.
God bless you Mr. President-Elect
Momma from Texas

Caption under Franken's picture is wrong. He is NOT a senator, merely a candidate for a seat.

Got ammo? Sporting goods and hunting supplies sellers report record sales. Pretty soon there will be no supplies on the shelves. Buy now or regret it when the New Order declares your ability to protect yourself to be illegal.

Congratulations to all Americans!!!! We have accomplished a union of and for all Americans. This new administartion was determined and established with the help of everyone and just like a marriage, whatever it took to get us there we will have to continue to do to make it work. Everyone will have to support the President and help to make America the steady and powerful force that we used to be. Brace yourselves for a long hard road of progress and changes in the United States. God Bless us all !!!!!

Hey what a great night, now let's patiently wait to see how much icing us DEMS get to eat!

This election period I believe proves that the GOP needs to spend the next 2 years seriously re-thinking what they stand for. America realizes that the negative attacks of the opposition do not have much sway, and with the surge in young voters, political issues are more important than minor character flaws.

If the senate becomes filibuster-proof, I think the Republican party of Bush dies and a new Republican party will have to be born in order to compete on the political stage.

That said, I have never been more proud to be an American than today.

Wow! What a night. The one I can't quite comprehend yet is Ted Stevens. How can Alaska elect a convicted felon when felons can't even vote. My bet is that he gets re-elected, booted out of the Senate and Governor Palin is bold and brash enough to appoint herself as his replacement. (kind of reminiscent of Cheney selecting himself as vice president). You betcha, wink wink. Will that woman just not go away already!!!

the dems getting the last four seats is the icing on the cake of disaster!!

if he wins in alsaka will ted stevens be thrown out of the senate anyway because of his convictions?

Just wondering if Presedent George Bush did vote
saw nothing of him voting.

It is amazing how senators who have been convicted of corruption or are under prosecution for it are re-elected. I guess it's all about your party and we don't care about the man. No wonder our political system is sick and the special interests pull all the strings.

Its hard to believe that the state of Alaska would still vote for Stevens.

Leave it to the Alaskans to vote for a politician found guilty of corruption. Way to go Alaska!!!

Less than 700 votes between Franken and Coleman, and that small of a percentage triggers an automatic recout by Minnesota law.

Come on AL!!!!

If Alaska sends Stevens to the Senate, it will DISGRACE itself.
He will be rejected under Senate Rules and we will be stuck with Palin appointing herself to the vacancy.