On November 4, 2008 (October 7, 2008 in the lunar calendar), Obama was elected President of the United States. On November 4, 2008, U.S. Democratic presidential candidate and Illinois Senator Obama (first from left), his wife Michelle (second from left) and Vice President-elect Biden (first from right) greeted supporters after announcing victory in the election in Chicago. Preliminary statistics released by major U.S. television networks show that U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama defeated Republican opponent John McCain in the presidential election held on the 4th and was elected the 56th President of the United States. He will become the first African-American president in U.S. history. Speaking in Chicago, Obama said the United States has begun to change. He thanked his family and campaign team and paid tribute to his opponent John McCain. Before Obama spoke, McCain had called Obama to congratulate him on his election as president and admit his failure. Speaking to supporters in Phoenix, Arizona, McCain praised Obama's historic election and promised to help Obama cope with the challenges he will face after taking office. He also called on supporters to support Obama, resolve differences, and jointly safeguard national prosperity and stability. U.S. President Bush also called to congratulate Obama on his election. According to procedures, Obama will be officially sworn in on January 20 next year.