Ted Stevens bids farewell: 'It has been the greatest honor of my life to work with Alaskans'

November 19, 2008

U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens has conceded to Democratic opponent Mark Begich, who commands an insurmountable lead in Alaska’s Senate election. Stevens, who learned of his defeat on his 85th birthday on Tuesday, released a statement Wednesday congratulating Begich and bidding farewell to his constituents.

“My family and I wish to thank the thousands of Alaskans who stood by us and who supported my re-election. It was a tough fight that would not have been possible without the help of so many Alaskans – people who I am honored to call my friends. I will always remember their thoughts, prayers, and encouragement.

“I am proud of the campaign we ran and regret that the outcome was not what we had hoped for. I am deeply grateful to Alaskans for allowing me to serve them for 40 years in the U.S. Senate. It has been the greatest honor of my life to work with Alaskans of all political persuasions to make this state that we all love a better place.

“I wish Mayor Begich and his family well. My staff and I stand willing to help him prepare for his new position."

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