Transcript: Kerry Concession Speech

Following is the transcript of Sen. John F. Kerry's concession speech at Faneuil Hall in Boston, Mass.

KERRY: Thank you so much. Thank you, thank you. I love you. I love you, thank you. Thank you, thank you so much.

Thank you so much. You just have no idea how warming and how generous that welcome is, your love is, your affection. And I'm gratified by it.

I'm sorry that we got here a little bit late and little bit short.

I spoke to President Bush and I offered him and Laura our congratulations on their victory.

KERRY: We had a good conversation, and we talked about the danger of division in our country and the need -- the desperate need for unity, for finding the common ground, coming together.

Today I hope that we can begin the healing.

(APPLAUSE)

In America, it is vital that every vote count, and that every vote be counted. But the outcome should be decided by voters, not a protracted legal process. I would not give up this fight if there was a chance that we would prevail.

KERRY: But is now clear that even when all the provisional ballots are counted, which they will be, there won't be enough outstanding votes for us to be able to win Ohio.

And therefore we cannot win this election. 

My friends, it was here that we began our campaign for the presidency and all we had was hope and vision for a better America. It was a privilege and a gift to spend two years traveling this country, coming to know so many of you.

I wish that I could just wrap you up in my arms and embrace each and every one of you individually all across this nation. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

(APPLAUSE)

KERRY: Thank you. 

(APPLAUSE)

Thank you.

(APPLAUSE)