One indicator of how Mr. Obama will respond to the election might be reflected in his decisions over the overhaul of U.S. immigration laws. The president's approval rating remains sky-high with Latino voters, one official said, but they didn't come out to vote Tuesday.
To turn them out, Democrats may have to press ahead with a broad overhaul of immigration laws next year, including the creation of a pathway to citizenship for illegal immigrants.
That might seal defeat for some Democrats in southern Republican districts -- such as Rep. Tom Perriello of Virginia -- but could energize the Latino vote elsewhere and give Mr. Obama a head of steam heading into 2012.
Mr. Axelrod said the White House wouldn't make its decision on immigration based on political considerations. "The president is committed to immigration reform," he said. "When the support is there and ready to go, then he's ready to go."
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