Hillary Clinton gave a somber address to supporters and staffers in New York today, saying she’s “sorry” she didn’t win the election and adding that “this is painful, and it will be for a long time.”
The Democratic presidential candidate was delivering what her campaign billed as a concession speech to Republican Donald Trump after his upset victory in Tuesday’s election. She spoke at a New York hotel.
Speaking to supporters Wednesday at a New York hotel, Clinton said the campaign has been “one of the greatest honors” of her life. She described the outcome as “painful,” but says the effort was not about her but “the country we love.”
She urged her supporters to accept the results, saying they owe President-elect Donald Trump an “open mind” and a “chance to lead.” She said American democracy depends on “peaceful transition of power.”
Clinton acknowledged that America has not “shattered that highest and hardest ceiling” with her failed bid for the White House. But she said, “someday, somebody will.”
Shortly thereafter, President Obama spoke in the White House’s Rose Garden, saying he is instructing his team to make sure there is a peaceful transfer of power to Trump.
Obama noted that he and Trump have had big differences. Trump promises to repeal many of Obama’s achievements over the past eight years. Obama had warned voters that if Trump were to win, “all that progress goes down the drain.”
Now, Obama said “we all want what’s best for this country.” He said the point is that we all go forward with a presumption of good faith in all citizens. He says that’s how the country has moved forward and he’s confident that the incredible American journey will continue.
Find a full report in Thursday’s Valley News.