04-24-09 - 5:15 p.m. The hard fought Special Election for the 20th Congressional came to an end late Friday afternoon when Republican James Tedisco conceded to Democrat Scott Murphy with the following statement:
"Mary and I would like to thank the citizens of the 20th Congressional district for their kindness, courtesy and patience shown during this extended campaign. This was a closely contested election that perhaps lasted a little longer than anyone may have expected or wanted. But it was important for our electoral process and for the hard-working people of Upstate New York that it be resolved fairly and decisively.
"Earlier today, I called and congratulated Scott Murphy on a hard-fought contest and wished him well as the next Congressman of the 20th Congressional district. I also expressed my willingness to work with him to ensure that the families of Upstate New York are not left behind as our nation strives for economic recovery.
"This was a close campaign every step of the way. Ultimately, it became clear that the numbers were not going our way and that the time had come to step aside and ensure that the next Congressman be seated as quickly as possible. In the interest of the citizens of the 20th Congressional district and our nation, I wish Scott the very best as he works with our new President and Congress to address the tremendous challenges facing our country.
"Finally, I would like to express my appreciation to all the volunteers, staff, supporters and most importantly my family, for their unending support and prayers. They all poured their blood, sweat and tears into this campaign and for that I will always be eternally grateful."
Scott Murphy issued a statement immediately following that said:
“First and foremost, I wish to thank the voters in this election for putting their faith and trust in me. I can't wait to get to work on their behalf in Washington.
"I thank Assemblyman Jim Tedisco for his kind words today. It was an honor to compete with him in this hard-fought campaign. I look forward to working with him to move Upstate in the right direction.
"My thanks to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for her extraordinary leadership and support for my campaign. Living up to her example of honest representation and hard work is something I will aspire to do every day.
"I'd like to thank President Obama and Vice President Biden for supporting my campaign and for their inspiring leadership for our country. I can't wait to start working with the President to deliver the urgently needed recovery funds to Upstate New York. “
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