Obama's victory tweet 'four more years' makes history

The US president tweeted a picture of himself hugging his wife Michelle that went instantly viral

In a Twitter first, Barack Obama has celebrated his victory, announced earlier today, by tweeting the following message:

"@BarackObama: Four more years.pic.twitter.com/bAJE6Vom"

The tweet, including a picture of him embracing his wife Michelle, went global almost instantly, and within just a couple of hours it became the most retweeted message since Twitter began in March 2006.

At the time of writing the tweet has received 562,917 retweets and 189,381 'favourites' on Twitter.

Another tweet from the President's account also gained worldwide attention, with over 225,000 retweets:

"@BarackObama: This happened because of you. Thank you."

A promoted tweet from the President's account, encouraging voters to stay in line at the polls, was retweeted just 15,000 times. Mr Obama tweeted: @BarackObama: If you’re in line when the polls close, stay in line to vote. It could help make the difference. pic.twitter.com/0QFN2ag1

Click here for our gallery of of the President's tweets plus other election highlights from Twitter.