The northwestern hub of liberalism joins Maine, Minnesota, and Maryland, all of which voted Tuesday to back same-sex marriage rights.

Obama won about 70 percent of Hispanic voters, an advantage that proved decisive in some key swing states.

Avoiding an impending "fiscal cliff" dominates the postelection agenda.

A conservative Republican majority in the House of Representatives ensures his legislation will continue to face roadblocks galore.

His initial plan: spend time with his family. He has five sons and 18 grandchildren, with a 19th on the way.
- House speaker says he'll consider tax increase AP

Upper-income Americans may face a tax increase. Auto fuel economy standards might be raised. Stocks of construction and engineering companies could benefit.

Obama's assignment: Improve an economy burdened by high unemployment, stagnant pay, and a European financial crisis.
- How Obama victory could affect areas of U.S. economy AP

The election gives both parties a chance to rethink the bitter partisanship that has gripped Washington
- Given 2nd term, Obama now facing new urgent task AP

President Obama will have to work with a status-quo Congress to address an impending financial crisis.
- Global candidate: Obama was world's clear choice AP

Obama's triumph reassured many who feared an abrupt change in U.S. policy could spell trouble.