So he's done it. What seemed impossible three years ago, and implausible just a year ago, has just made the history books. But could it also bring miracles for a certain Mr Brown on this side of the Atlantic? Just a few months ago, Gordon Brown and New Labour seemed dead in the water. Recently revived by the economic meltdown, Obama's victory could give them a helping hand in an election. 

But the clock is ticking. The Labour bounce will not last long into the recession, as job repossessions and unemployment rise. There are many who think that Labour's only chance of another term is if they call an election soon, perhaps in the spring.

A few good photo calls with the new president could do wonders for Brown. He'll have to take a prominent position with the president elect at the upcoming economic talks. Obama represents hope and change, and if Brown can closely align himself with him then he might be able to pass himself off as the man to take us out of these difficult times (whether he helped get us into them or not!).

Also, if the US and UK draws up a plan to extricate both sets of troops from Iraq and leave the country with some semblance of stability soon (as Obama has promised) it could play well with voters.

It's going to be fascinating to watch how the Tories respond to Labour's efforts. Yes, we've definitely got some interesting political times ahead in the next six months over here, and Obama's going to play his part in them too.