The Editorial board is pleased to welcome back The Panel – a broad cross section of community voices that offered insight to Observer readers during the Democratic National Convention. Today we ask one more election question:

What one word best describes your feelings about Tuesday night’s election results, and why?

Jack Cobb - Lawyer and conservative political junkie who worked on Capital Hill:

Groundhog Day. President Obama’s close win and a still-divided Congress leave us politically about where we have been the last two years. Like the Bill Murray movie character, the president has to find some greater wisdom and courage on entitlement and tax reform. So does Congress.

Sarah Reynolds – Physician and mother of three:

Disheartened. Raising the next generation in a climate that devalues self-discipline will have long-term consequences. The freedom to make one’s own life is degraded by excessive governmental control and dependency. Obamacare will have unintended negative consequences for everyone. America can do better. Strength must come from working together.

Julio Colmenares – President and CEO, CGR Creative, and chairman of Charlotte’s Latin American Chamber of Commerce:

Accountability. After 18 months and many millions of dollars spent in campaigns, both parties delivered their promises and plans for a better future. Now that we have the winners, let’s all make sure we hold our leaders accountable for their actions and outcomes… every day, not every term. I have my list!

Bess Kercher – Writer, liberal political junkie, stay-at-home Charlotte mom:

Gratitude. I am grateful that so many Americans affirmed consistent, progressive leadership. Obama’s re-election represents support for: a balanced approach to deficit reduction, thoughtful immigration reform, the pursuit of social justice, and aggressive advocacy on behalf of poor and middle-class Americans.

Michael A. DeVaul – Senior Vice President, YMCA of Greater Charlotte:

Confirming. Increasing voter participation led by the young, women and a rising new state of our diverse demographic. Regardless of your party, the interest of this new “voter” seems to be aimed at reinvesting time and energy in each other. Positive momentum for the land of the free. Let’s come together!

Jill Flynn – Former Wachovia executive, now partner at Flynn Health Hold Leadership, a consulting firm:

Two words, relieved and concerned. I’m relieved the election is finally over! Obama, the Senate, and the House have been given four more years to make progress on critical issues such as restructuring the tax code, crafting a workable immigration policy, addressing global warming in a meaningful way, and negotiating a “grand bargain” to put the country on a sound fiscal path. I am concerned because I fear that nothing will change and we will see the same intransigence that we have been seeing the past four years.

Pamela Sanchez – Community and Public Relations Manager at Norsan Media:

PROUD! I am so proud of our country for re-electing President Obama – the man who believes in equality for all. As a young Hispanic professional and a woman, I am beyond thrilled to see President Obama back in office! We need a leader who moves forward, not backward.

Mark Erwin: Charlotte businessman and former ambassador in the Clinton administration:

Finally. Congratulations, Mr. President. Your place in history is secure. Now it is time to work on your legacy. Lead our nation through these troubled times with a spirit of reconciliation and respect for all citizens and malice toward none. No more us against them or rich against poor. Our country needs to create jobs and opportunities for all to prosper.