McCain's concession speech from the Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix, Ariz. was everything it had to be--a generous, gracious reminder that when the campaign comes to a close what really matters is our shared enterprise as Americans. It was easy to forget in the heat of battle, but no one does bipartisanship better.
"Sen. Obama and I argued our differences, and he has prevailed," McCain said. "No doubt many of those differences remain. These are difficult times for our country. I pledge tonight to do all in my power to help him lead us with the many challenges we face. Whatever our differences, we are fellow Americans... and believe me when I say: no association has ever meant more to me than that. Though we fell short, the failure is mine, not yours."
At that, McCain's supporters shouted in protest. Ultimately, they were right. The blame belongs not to McCain but to Obama, the better candidate--and, in part, President George W. Bush. This year, the senator from Arizona faced impossible odds, and struggled to overcome them however he could. But it wasn't to be.
He'll survive the loss. He's survived far worse.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
