ELECTION:WA–George Bush claimed a second term as president Wednesday as challenger John Kerry… ELECTION:WA–George Bush claimed a second term as president Wednesday as challenger John Kerry conceded defeat.

Bush won the popular vote — winning the most votes of any American in history and claiming the popular vote mandate that eluded him four years ago.

At the same time, his Republican Party tightened its control on federal government power in what appeared to be an emerging Republican majority.

More to follow…