Photos: 2012 top news stories from near and far
Credit: Getty Images
PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
U.S. ELECTION: Mitt Romney out-campaigned an eclectic field of Republican rivals, and bested Obama in their opening head-to-head debate. But on Election Day, thanks in part to a vigorous get-out-the-vote operation, Obama won a second term with a large lead in electoral votes and a solid advantage in popular votes. The GOP hung on to its majority in the House, but lost two seats to remain a minority in the Senate despite early-campaign projections of gains there.
Other Slideshows
Photos: Parts of St. Louis area flooded after storms
Photos: Shark attack off Texas beach
Photos: St. Louis Zoo debuts baby lemurs
Photos: Pope Francis blesses Harley-Davidsons
Photos: Four-legged Spurs fans show their pride
Photos: Erin Brady, of Connecticut, wins Miss USA
