The US mid-term elections have been a major upset for Barack Obama. The Democrats have taken a hammering, although just retaining control of the Senate.
The Republican and Tea Party wins will affect the President's ability to pass laws. However, history shows that a mid-term setback does not necessarily mean no second term for a sitting President.
Mr Obama will have to work harder, but Bill Clinton was in a similar position and used it to his advantage. The President now needs to reconnect with the ordinary voter and show he can improve the lives of ordinary Americans.