Silence descends on Mitt Romney camp as results come in
Optimism of last-minute push for votes gives way to dismay and regret as results come in
The day had started optimistically, as Mitt Romney cast his ballot early, then made one last trip to scour for votes. But it ended with stony silence in the ballroom where his supporters watched state after state that they hoped would break the Republican nominee's way tilt towards President Barack Obama.
Nearly two hours after the US television networks called the race for Obama, Romney appeared onstage at a waterfront convention centre in Boston to congratulate his opponent and thank his supporters.
"I have just called President Obama to congratulate him on his victory," Romney said, and went on to thank his running mate Paul Ryan, his wife, Ann, and his sons for their work on the campaign.
"I believe in America. I believe in the people of America," he said as the crowd cheered. "I ran for office because I'm concerned about America. This election is over but our principles endure."
Romney said he wished that he would have been elected, but that "the nation chose another leader, so Ann and I join with you to earnestly pray for him".
Before Romney came out, several hundred people stood silently and sullenly, watching the returns come in. Some struggled to understand voters' continued support for Obama.
"We're aghast. Why? Why would someone vote for him?" said Sandy Nabhan, 54.
