Yet through it ran a simple chorus: "Lets get it done", "Send me a bill, " "I will sign it", "Take a vote".

BBC: State of the Union: Obama pledges to reignite economy

"I'll take that vote, " Anthony said, adding that James was a deserving winner.

NPR: James Wins MVP, 1 Vote Shy Of Unanimously

"If this election is to take the political pulse of our nation, then I want every beat and every vote to show a nation that looks with hope and generosity and courage to the future, not with regret or hurt, and bitterness of the past, " he said in the final hours of the race.

BBC: Irish parties pull out the stops on last day of race