Based on what I have read, seen and heard, I have a lot of respect for McCain.

But, sadly, I think his age is beginning to show and his choice of Palin as a running mate was a huge mistake.

Can you imagine the 'pitbull with lipstick' as an effective DP? Somehow I cannot see it...

Obama managed to project himself as a much stronger and more sincere character than McCain. His running mate Biden was kept in the background throughout the election campaign and the focus was always on Obama himself.

The combination of the US people's deep dissatisfaction with the Bush administration, and the emergence of a charismatic personality such as Obama, meant that McCain never really had a chance.

Soon we will see if Obama can live up to expectations, I believe that he can and I hope that he will. Give the guy a chance!

A last thought. Given that McCain was severely hampered by the Bush legacy, and that his campaign was not nearly as slick as Obama's, he nevertheless showed in his final speech that his real and sincere concern was for his country and it's people.

He praised his opponent and pledged his support to him, and for this he deserves the greatest respect.