Every news network is now reporting Barack Obama as the 44^th President. With almost three hundred electoral votes, against John McCain’s one hundred fifty-five, as they said on the news, “Tonight, every American should be celebrating.” Whether your cause for celebration is that Obama was your choice for President, for the fact that he will be America’s first African-American President or simply for the fact that the campaign is over, celebration is indeed overtaking the nation (at least those who aren’t asleep for the night).

When it comes to the economy though, it’s important to note that the President doesn’t have unmatched control over the economy. Obama’s economic policies will come into play, but it’s just as important to note the Congressional elections and the new Senators that will shape the next four years. In addition to Obama, Biden, the House and the Senate, Obama’s choice of Cabinet members will also be very telling of the next four years. As for the Senate, which is still being said to be too close to call, currently, fifty-six seats are pointed toward democratic senators while forty-four are pointed toward republican senators.

McCain is currently giving a speech, during which he just made a very valuable point; the number of voters that came out of their homes and offices today to voice their opinions. Voter turnout in the last few elections were not anywhere near this year’s turnout of voters. McCain’s speech is graceful to the point of being sure to shush those booing his commendations to Obama. His words emphasized the importance of working together to continue to improve and strengthen our nation. “Whatever our differences, we are fellow Americans, and please believe me when I say, no association has ever meant more to me than that.” Those words sufficiently sum up the heart of McCain’s speech.

It’s important to take McCain’s speech into consideration because he emphasizes the need to work together. Over the coming years, hopefully voters will continue to flood to the polls and write to representatives to express views and participate in local and national levels of government.

As far as what to expect for the economy, when it comes to details, those projections may have to wait as much as a week while we wait for the Senate and House of Representatives elections to cement. The latest question floating around on the news networks is whether our government will take an activist role in our economy or maintain a less active position.

To live during an election as historic as this election is nevertheless exciting. This election will be one of those defining generational moments that touches every generation alive to not only witness this election but to take part, to participate and vote in this election.

As of yet, Barack Obama hasn’t delivered a speech regarding his victory.