This is post for my international readers, though it may be interesting to one or two others (i.e. my entire readership). The President of the United States is not elected by popular vote, rather he is elected by the US Electoral College with its 538 electors. These electors come from the states and the District of Columbia.
The Economist developed this video to explain the electoral process, beginning in June of this year. The leaning of the state (based on polling data) for a candidate’s party affiliation is indicated by color, red for republican (McCain) and blue for democrat (Obama).
Now, for a different take, look at this, 7-11 coffee drinkers are totally in the cups for Obama.
Nullius in Verba 