Obama says change is coming to America

Barack Obama said his victory tonight makes him more hopeful than ever that change is coming.

“If there’s anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where anything is possible… tonight is your answer,” Obama said in declaring victory. “… It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change is coming to America.”

Obama had kind words for John McCain and Sarah Palin, calling his opponent “a brave and selfless leader” whose service means America is better off. He said he looks forward to working with both in the months ahead.

Obama said he will never forget that his victory belongs to the American people.

“A government of the people, for the people, by the people has not perished from the earth. This is your victory,” he said.

Obama urged Americans to resist the temptation to “fall back” on the partisanship and pettiness that has divided them in the past.