Hillary Clinton officially conceded the presidential election to Donald Trump on Wednesday, wrapping up one of the most controversial and heated elections in American history.
Clinton spoke to a crowd in New York City in the morning. Her speech appealed to the heart of American voters.
She took time to praise campaign workers, many of whom have followed her around for a year and a half, and told the American people there was still work left to do.
"I know how disappointed you feel, because I feel it too...this is painful and it will be for a long time,” Clinton said.
The pain evidently comes from the historic, unexpected upset her opponent Donald Trump pulled off on Election Day.
For weeks, pollsters had speculated Clinton had the election in the bag.
The odds were stacked in her favor. She was predicted by many to easily sail to the White House, and many thought Tuesday would be an early night.
A surprise surge from white voters, however, ultimately handed Trump the 270 electoral votes necessary to seal his fate as the 45th president of the United States.
Election results continued late into the night, but Clinton did not concede early Wednesday morning like many had anticipated.
Clinton said she would respect Trump, and told her supporters to approach him with an “open mind” moving forward.
"I still believe in America and I always will,” the former Secretary of State said. “If you do, we must accept this result and look to the future."
While Trump’s victory was historic, Clinton’s candidacy also made the history books. She is the first woman to become the candidate of a major party.
Her loss, she said, is a setback, but her life has been categorized by a series of setbacks and successes.
She spoke to young voters, reminding them there will be hardships
"I have had successes and I have had setbacks, sometimes really painful ones,” Clinton explained. “You will have successes and setbacks too..but please never stop believing that fighting for what's right is worth it."
Clinton especially addressed women voters in her speech, saying she was honored to carry their banner during this year’s election.
"To all the women who put their faith in this campaign and in me, nothing has made me prouder than to be your champion,” Clinton said.
In spite of losing the election, Clinton remained upbeat and positive about the future.
"Our best days are still ahead of us...because we are stronger together and we will go forward together,” she said.
Reach reporter Allison Nielsen by email at allison@sunshinestatenews.com or follow her on Twitter: @AllisonNielsen.
