President Obama wins re-election; says 'the best is yet to come'

CHICAGO (AP) — President Barack Obama says the American people have “picked ourselves up” and fought back during tough economic times, declaring after winning re-election that the “best is yet to come.”

Obama says he wants to meet with Republican rival Mitt Romney to discuss how they can work together. He says they may have “battled fiercely, but it’s only because we love this country deeply.”

The president rolled to a second term over Romney, winning more than 300 electoral votes.

Obama was welcomed by thunderous applause as he arrived on stage in his hometown, joined by first lady Michelle Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia.

Romney said earlier he called Obama to congratulate him on his victory, adding that he prays “the president will be successful in guiding our nation.”