Election Night Celebration

As the much-anticipated 2008 Election draws near, it's time to think about throwing an Election Night party. Gather with friends to watch the election returns and minute-by-minute forecasts and political discussions on the cable news network of your choice. With polls still showing a tight race, the anticipation will likely last long into the night, so keep guests fueled up for fun with these delicious recipes.

Mad for McCain
For those in the McCain camp, we've highlighted a few Tex-Mex classics, plus some of the Arizona senator's favorite foods. First, get the Election Night excitement flowing with a pitcher of Margarita Sunrise, a sweet variation on the traditional recipe that features a few splashes of orange liqueur and orange juice. Serve Layered Bean Dip for a hearty appetizer, or if it's a chilly night, set out a steaming pot of Arizona Tortilla Soup to keep guests satisfied.
Margarita Sunrise
Layered Bean Dip
Arizona Tortilla Soup

If you want to try a few of McCain's favorite foods on Tuesday night, opt for pepperoni pizza or shrimp. We like Southern Living's Pepperoni Pizza for its easy prep, and Deviled Shrimp (Camarones a la Diabla) for its hot 'n smoky flavor. Finally, guests can satisfy their sweet tooths with Rich Refrigerator Doughnuts; doughnuts are reportedly another McCain favorite and a staple on the campaign bus.
Pepperoni Pizza
Deviled Shrimp (Camarones a la Diabla)
Rich Refrigerator Doughnuts

Over the Moon for Obama
Though Obama has revealed less about his own go-to foods, wife Michelle says that one of his home-cooked favorites is a big pot of chili, perfect for watching the election returns when it's cold outside. If chili doesn't sound appealing, though, there are several Chicago specialties to check out. The most famous is Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza, featuring an ultra-thick crust and tomato sauce layered on top of mozzarella cheese. Other city classics include Hot Dogs "Run Through the Garden" (in other words, with the works) and Italian Beef Subs.
Chunky Two-Bean and Beef Chili
Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
Hot Dogs "Run Through the Garden"
Italian Beef Subs

You're a Grand Old Flag...
Finally, no Election Night party would be complete without a few patriotic dishes to bring everyone together. Serve brightly colored Raspberry Lemonade in red, white, or blue sugar-rimmed glasses, complete with playful swizzle sticks left over from the 4th of July. Chewy Red, White, and Blue cookies, made with colored chocolate pieces, are sure to be a hit with fellow partiers and will keep guests satisfied until the final poll results have been tallied.
Raspberry Lemonade
Chewy Red, White, and Blue Cookies