Chicago natives back Obama

These are Obama's old stomping grounds -- the Hyde Park suburb of Chicago.

It appears there are less "Vote Obama" signs in storefront windows than there were four years ago, when "Obamania" swept the Windy City.

But while that electric atmosphere may have powered down somewhat, most residents believe their former senator won't be moving back any time soon.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) HYDE PARK RESIDENT, SHARON HARDY, SAYING:

"President Obama, second term. Why? Because Romney is a liar."

After winning the presidency in 2008 Obama treated himself to a hearty breakfast here at the Valois Diner -- a home-style eatery that still proudly displays his favourite dishes on its walls.

Barbara Davis has been serving food here for the past 35 years.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) BARBARA DAVIS, COOK AT VALOIS, SAYING:

"You are actually asking me who is going to win tomorrow? I know who is going to win. Barack Obama."

But, as everywhere else in the U.S., the economy is top of the agenda -- and some voters are disillusioned with Obama.

Herman Emetta voted for Barack in 2008, but now says his auto repair business has come close to collapsing, and he believes Mitt Romney has a better chance of fixing the economy.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) HERMAN ETTEMA, MECHANIC, ROMNEY SUPPORTER, SAYING:

"I have had enough with the last four years. I am a business man and I about went under with this nonsense."

The latest polls show Obama and Romney neck and neck in most pivotal battleground states, meaning it could be anyone's game.

But here at the McCormick Center in downtown Chicago hundreds of journalists and media personnel are already setting up for Obama's post election event.

And if he wins, diners at the Valois are expecting to see him for breakfast bright and early on Wednesday morning.