US President Barack Obama on Monday opened his 2012 re-election campaign with a website announcement and e-mails and text messages to supporters.

 

"This campaign is just kicking off," a short announcement said on www.barackobama.com. "We’re opening up offices, unpacking boxes and starting a conversation with supporters like you to help shape our path to victory. 2012 begins now …"

 

The two-minute, 10-second video on the site featured supporters from around the country discussing their support for the Democratic president.

 

Political observers expect the Obama campaign to raise an unprecedented US$1 billion for the race.