New 'American Idol' named

By Christy LeMire
Associated Press

NEW YORK — Powerhouse Fantasia Barrino was named the "American Idol" tonight. With over 65 million votes cast, Barrino defeated perky Diana DeGarmo to capture the TV talent show prize.

The judging trio of Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell practically crowned Barrino the winner after she finished the last of her three songs yesterday. DeGarmo seriously strayed off-key during her last song, and the judges were equally candid in telling her she'd blown it.

"I think you had one last chance to come and nail this competition, and I don't think you did," Cowell told the 16-year-old from Snellville, Ga.

But the judges don't decide the winner — America does, through phone and text-message votes.

Jasmine Trias made it to the top three in the Fox singing competition, even though fellow finalists Jennifer Hudson and La Toya London were stronger singers. Theories abounded as to why, from racism (Hudson and London are black) to personality (Trias is sunny and warm, London is not).