Premier Paula Cox has written to US President Barack Obama to congratulate him on his re-election.Ms Cox, who said she was glued to her TV set on Wednesday night, said of the election victory: “There was a sense of hope and optimism. People want to see their elected officials working cooperatively to deliver solutions to enrich their lives.”Her comments came as the Island’s politicians raced to associate themselves with the President’s victory.Ms Cox said: “What we saw was the power of the people and the importance of political participation and engagement.“The people of the United States spoke with a resounding voice, and whether Democrat or Republican, the power of the vote and the ability to make a difference was clear.“On behalf of the Government and the people of Bermuda, I have sent a letter of congratulations to President Obama, offering our hope for his continued success and a wish to reaffirm our century’s old friendship with the United States.”One Bermuda Alliance Leader Craig Cannonier noted Bermuda’s “long-standing, productive relationship” with the United States.“It is no secret that many Bermudians hold President Obama in high regard and are delighted with his reelection. The One Bermuda Alliance applauds his efforts over the past four years to stabilise the United States economy by carefully balancing plans for debt reduction with the need for a jobs stimulus, to provide universal healthcare, to expand human rights and to stand strong for women’s rights.“The One Bermuda Alliance looks forward to working with the Obama Administration to maintain and enhance the mutually beneficial relationship between Bermuda and the United States.”A statement issued by the Progressive Labour Party claimed Mr Obama was re-elected because he “stood strong for Americans”, a play on the party’s “Standing Strong for Bermudians” slogan.Meanwhile, the two MPs elected under the United Bermuda Party banner Kim Swan and Charles Swan offered their “heartfelt congratulations” to President Obama and his team for “an outstanding victory”.“We were impressed with the way that President Obama was able to win the tough battleground States. Notwithstanding the economic challenges still facing the United States, the people have spoken and have placed their faith in President Obama with another term of office.”