The 2008 United States presidential election was held on November 4, 2008. It featured major candidates from the Democratic Party, Barack Obama, and the Republican Party, John McCain. This election was notable for its high voter turnout and the historic candidacy of Obama, who became the first African American president in U.S. history. The election focused on key issues such as the economic crisis, healthcare, and the ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Obama won with 365 electoral votes compared to McCain's 173, reflecting a significant shift in voter sentiment and demographics across the country.