US News

Obama launches bid for second term

Apr 4, 2011, 10:28 GMT

A file photo dated 20 January 2009 showing Barack Obama taking the oath of office as he is sworn in as the President of the United States in Washington. EPA/MATTHEW CAVANAUGH

Washington - US President Barack Obama on Monday launched his bid for a second term of office, the first candidate to officially declare themselves for the 2012 race, with a campaign video on the internet.

'It begins with us,' said the slogan of the video, which showed supporters expressing their backing for Obama and talking enthusiastically about the upcoming campaign.

'This campaign is just kicking off. We're opening up offices, unpacking boxes, and starting a conversation with supporters like you to help shape our path to victory. 2012 begins now, and this is where you say you're in,' said the launch video.

The announcement came at 6 am Eastern Standard Time (1000 GMT), following speculation in the US media over the weekend that Obama would announce his candidacy on Monday.

US media reports said the campaign team would be based in Obama's home town of Chicago and would make the necessary applications so that the president could start accepting donations.

The first fund-raising event was planned for April 14 in Chicago, broadcaster CNN said.

Commentators said it was unusual for an incumbent president to announce his intention to seek reelection at such an early date. Primary elections to decide the major-party presidential nominees will begin early next year, with general elections on November 6, 2012.

The Washington Post said the early announcement was probably linked to the high campaign costs. After raising some 750 million dollars for the 2008 race that saw him elected as the first African-American president, Obama's re-election effort is expected to approach 1 billion dollars.

From the Republican Party, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty has been the only leading figure to organize a presidential exploratory committee, the first formal step in mounting a campaign. Other top Republicans are expected to enter the fray in the coming weeks.

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