Sen. Mark Pryor Concedes U.S. Senate Race

“Twelve years ago, the people of Arkansas gave me the greatest privilege of my life to represent them in the United States Senate. Those years were filled with some hardships and some difficult decisions: two wars, the most severe economic downturn in my lifetime and an exploding national debt just to name a few.

“But also those years include a lot of good things: bringing our men and women home from distance lands, and, even though it has been slower than I would have wished and a lot of us would have liked, an American economy that is now poised to grow and be even stronger than ever.

“I believe in Arkansas, and I believe in America. The biggest and most serious problem we’re facing in our nation today is the dysfunction of our political system in Washington. We have incredible potential, but we won’t reach it unless Washington starts to work again for all of us. If we’re going to continue to be the greatest nation on earth we must work together. A future united is much brighter than a future divided. 

“Tonight the people have spoken. I’ve just called Tom Cotton to congratulate him on his victory. I wish him the very best as he takes this seat on the Senate floor. I want you to know that he will be in my prayers. 

“That’s part of taking off the red jersey and taking off the blue jersey, right?

“I must confess that I have some sadness tonight. I’ll miss waking up every day to go to work for the people of Arkansas. But as one chapter of my life closes, another chapter begins. It’s uncertain, but it’s exciting because I know God will direct my steps to whatever He has planned for me. And before I leave this stage I have to thank just a few people.

“First Joi, who has been with me every step of the way. My kids Adams and Porter, and of course my mother and father, Barbara and David Pryor, and my brothers. And also a great campaign staff, a great campaign team and my incredible official staff both past and present: thank you.

“All of my supporters across this state who have believed in me and carried me through this campaign: thank you. God bless you, God bless Arkansas, and God bless the United States of America.”