Late Tuesday night, President Barack Obama (D) reasserted his position as the leader of the United States.

Months of campaigning culminated in a 303-206 Electoral College trouncing of Mitt Romney (R). Many attribute this sweeping victory to the Obama team’s “ground game” in swing states like Ohio, Florida, and Wisconsin. The popular vote (50.4% – 48.1%), though also won by Obama, was not as pronouced a victory. Besides holding onto the executive office, Democrats kept a slight majority in the Senate. Republicans retained their majority in the House of Representatives.

In his concession speech, Mitt Romney called for an end to “partisan bickering and political posturing,” and congratulated the President on his win. Obama offered reciprocal niceties in his acceptance speech, adding that he is “looking forward to reaching out and working with leaders of both parties.” The President, to resounding cheers and the occasional tear, also touched on issues such as gay marriage, care for veterans, immigration, and the deficit.

Two Senate races won by Democrats have been described as milestones. Tammy Baldwin from Wisconsin is the first openly gay candidate to be elected to the Senate. Elizabeth Warren is the first female Senator to be elected from Massachusetts. Both Baldwin and Warren are self-described progressives and fierce advocates for Wall Street reform.

Though it may seem as if not much has changed in electoral politics, many states experienced landmarks in public referenda. Maryland, Maine, and Washington joined the growing list of states in which gay marriage is legal. Colorado became the first state in history to legalize the recreational use of marijuana for adults. However, the drug is still illegal under federal law, and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper advised citizens not to “break out the Cheetos or Goldfish too quickly.” Washington also legalized marijuana, but only for medicinal use.

What is your take on this election? Is it politics as usual? Or have the American people “voted for action” as President Obama suggests? Comment below with your thoughts!