Two states still to call as Democrats strengthen their hold on Congress

2.00pm: President-elect Barack Obama passed the magic figure of 270 electoral college votes at 4am today UK time. Ten hours later, with the electoral college tally at 349 for Obama to 162 for John McCain, there are only two states still to be declared – North Carolina (15 votes) and Missouri (11 votes).

The Democrats have strengthened their hold on Congress with important victories in New Hampshire, New Mexico, Colorado, Virginia and North Carolina. Mark Warner won in Virginia and Kay Hagan ousted Elizabeth Dole in North Carolina.

With Senate races still to be called in Alaska, Georgia, Oregon, and Minnesota, the Democrats are assured at least a 56 to 44 majority in the 100-person Senate. If they can push that to 60 – 40 they will have reached the target that allows them to smother Republican stalling tactics.

FIRST POSTED NOVEMBER 5, 2008