The best is yet to come, Barack Obama assures Americans
Addressing his supporters and members of the Democratic Party at McCormick Place here, he said, "I want to thank the best campaign team and volunteers in the history of politics... All of you are family... Thank you for believing all the way... You lifted me up the whole way and I will always be grateful for everything that you've done and the incredible work that you put in."
Referring to the Republican candidate who had already conceded defeat, Obama said that he is planning to discuss with Mitt Romney how they can work together for the sake of the nation.
Pointing out that arguments in democracy are a mark of liberty, he said that "Despite our differences, we share certain hopes for America's future." Striking a humble note in his victory speech, Obama averred, "Whether I've earned your vote or not, I listened to you."
Stressing that "We are an American family, we rise or fall together as one nation and as one people", Obama said that he will meet leaders from both the Democratic and Republican parties as "we have work to do."
The president said that "It doesn't matter whether you're black or white or Hispanic or Asian or Native American or young or old or rich or poor, able, disabled, gay or straight, you can make it here in America if you're willing to try."
He described the US as "more than a collection of red & blue states" and asserted "We are and forever will be the United States of America".
Stating that he has never been more hopeful about America's future, Obama said that he returns to the White House "more determined and more inspired than ever about the work there is to do and the future that lies ahead."