Hillary Clinton’s concession speech was a reminder of just how tough she has been throughout her public career. Hours after losing an election every major pollster said she would win, Clinton offered inclusive, hopeful and supportive remarks of president-elect Donald Trump.
“This loss hurts, but please never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it,” said Clinton. “This is not the outcome we wanted. I’m sorry we did not win this election for the values we share and the vision we hold for our country.”
The former Democratic nominee also said she hoped Trump “will be a successful president for all Americans.”
As Clinton prepares to leave the national stage, after more than three decades of public service, she instructed her millions of disappointed supporters not to “lose faith in America, because I never will.”
If this were a “normal” election, Clinton would have been victorious. She beat Trump in the national popular vote 59.16 million to 59 million. However, she lost in the electoral college after her “firewall” states Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin tipped for Trump.
She also failed to become the first woman to be elected president, something she acknowledged in her concession speech.
“I know we still haven’t shattered that ultimate glass ceiling, but someday, someone will and maybe sooner than we think,” said Clinton. “To all the little girls watching, never doubt that you are powerful and deserving of every opportunity to pursue your own dreams.”
Clinton is the second candidate in 16 years that won the popular vote, yet lost the election. Democrat Al Gore faced a similar situation in 2000 when he lost the electoral vote to George W. Bush.
Trump will be inaugurated on January 20, 2017.