FACTBOX: U.S. reaction to Russia’s election

Following is initial reaction from U.S. officials and presidential candidates to the election on Sunday of Dmitry Medvedev as Russia’s next president. Medvedev vows to continue the policies of Vladimir Putin.WHITE HOUSE SPOKESMAN GORDON JOHNDROE

“Results are not final and the commission has not made an announcement, so it would be premature to comment at this time.”

STATE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN ROB MCINTURFF

“We want to wait until the process is finished to go further on comments on that.”

SEN. HILLARY CLINTON, DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

“Today’s presidential election in Russia — where the installation of Dmitriy Medvedev as Vladimir Putin’s self-designated successor was never in doubt — marks a milestone in that country’s retreat from democracy.”

SEN. BARACK OBAMA, DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

“I am disappointed that this election was not fully free and fair because of the absence of a free media, and the harassment of opposition figures and political parties. Going forward, we must continue to support democracy and civil society in Russia, while working with Dmitry Medvedev.”