President Obama defeated Republican nominee Mitt Romney to win re-election, carrying most swing states seen as being crucial to a Romney presidency.
The major television networks called the election at 11 p.m. Nov. 6, as it appeared increasingly likely that Obama would emerge from Ohio victorious.
As of 12:45 a.m. Nov. 7, Obama had captured Virginia, Wisconsin, Colorado, Iowa and Nevada, and the corresponding 44 electoral votes, according to The New York Times. Obama also led in Florida and Ohio, which carry a combined 47 electoral votes.
Democrats were assured of holding onto their majority in the Senate, while Republicans retained a majority in the House of Representatives.
Check back for continuing coverage of the 2012 elections.
