Incumbent U.S. President Bush has won a second four-year term in office after a record 59 million Americans chose him over Democrat John Kerry.

In his victory speech delivered shortly after Kerry conceded defeat early Thursday morning, Korean time, Bush pledged to seek "the broad support of all Americans.” He also vowed to make the United States stronger and better, asking for the American people's support in doing so.

Bush beat Kerry by more than three million votes after he secured 274 electoral votes, four more than the 270 needed for victory. Kerry had 252 electoral votes, with Iowa's seven unsettled.

Kerry conceded defeat in make-or-break Ohio, saying he "hopes that we can begin the healing."

Bush's victory ensures Republican dominance of virtually every quarter of the U.S. political system for years to come — the White House, Congress and the federal judiciary.

Bush will be inaugurated for a second term on January 20.