In the conservative, Republican city of Phoenix, capital of Arizona, senator John McCain watched as much of the voting went against him. In a state where race is still an issue, many voters backed Senator Obama.

McCain had been losing footing in his very own state, and although he eventually won by a narrow margin, here were rival supporters, already celebrating on his own turf, almost adding insult to injury.

Meanwhile, his own supporters gathered at the infamous Arizona Biltmore- dressed to the nines and keeping their fingers crossed.

Most people stood outside waiting for the results – but some went to greater lengths than others.

And alongside various Arizona officials was Erin Nurss, the official state beauty of 2008, who hoped to congratulate McCain on being elected president.

But the support, financial and moral, wasn't enough. The war- and the battle – were both lost. McCain's said: “The American people have spoken and have spoken clearly. A while ago I had the honour of calling Senator Obama to congratulate him on being elected the next president of country that we both love.”

Teary-eyed supporters filed out of the grand ballroom – already dreading the tomorrows to come.

Change has indeed come to America. But what's in store for the country post election day?