August 9, 2006
Excerpts: Lieberman's Concession Speech
Following are excerpts from Senator Joseph I. Lieberman's concession speech, as recorded by The New York Times.Snip...
I am disappointed not just because I lost, but because the old politics of partisan polarization won today. For the sake of our state, our country and my party, I cannot and will not let that result stand.
I expect that my opponent will continue to do in the general election what he has done in the primary … partisan polarizing instead of talking about how we can solve people's problems, insults instead of ideas. In other words, more of the same old partisan politics that has assailed Washington today.
I will continue to offer Connecticut a different path forward. I went into public service to find solutions, not to point fingers. To unite, not to divide. To lift up, not to tear down. To make my community and country a better place to live and work.
People …and not just the Democrats are angry at the direction of this country - so am I. People are fed up with the petty partisanship and angry vitriol in Washington.
Let me tell you, I have been there, and I am fed up too. … Every disagreement is considered disloyal. And every opponent it is not just an opponent but is seen as evil. It is time for our elected leaders to stop playing political games, so we can get things done for the people who are good enough to send us to Washington to serve them. That's exactly what I am trying to do.
Tomorrow, our campaign will file the necessary petitions
so that we can continue this campaign for a new politics of unity and purpose.
If the people of Connecticut are good enough to send me back to Washington as an independent Democrat, I promise them I will keep fighting for the same progressive new ideas and for stronger national security. That's who I am.
I will never hesitate to work with members of the other party if it helps me achieve solutions that will build a better life for the people of Connecticut. …I will always do what I think is right for my state and country, regardless of what the political consequences may be.
more...
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/09/nyregion/09transcriptliebermn.htmlLieberman attacks Lamont then goes on to say: I will continue to...find solutions, not to point fingers. To unite, not to divide. To lift up, not to tear down.
Lieberman promises to continue fighting for "progressive new ideas."
How? By supporting an illegal occupation and acquiescing to Republicans who rubber stamp Bush's agenda?