Obama turns re-election prospects over to voters

CHICAGO (AP) — President Barack Obama is extending congratulations to rival Mitt Romney “on a spirited campaign.” Obama says he’s “confident we’ve got the votes to win.”

Obama says he knows Romney supporters are “just as engaged, just as enthusiastic.”

Obama spoke to reporters briefly after making calls to Wisconsin campaign volunteers Tuesday morning from a campaign office near his South Side Chicago home.

He said he and first lady Michelle Obama were grateful to all of the campaign volunteers who have worked hard on his behalf.

He was greeted by thunderous applause by about two dozen volunteers, many with tears streaming down their face.

During one call, he told a woman: “Hopefully we’ll have a good day.” And he told her to “keep working hard all the way through.”