Hillary Clinton Speaks after Conceding Presidential Election

Hillary Clinton has spoken publicly for the first time since losing the presidential election to Donald Trump. She spoke to a small crowd in Manhattan this morning about her loss and her hopes for the future.

Clinton said in speaking to Trump, she offered to work with him on behalf of the country. She said she hoped he would be a successful for all Americans.

But she also talked about her loss.

“This is painful and will be for a long time,” Clinton said.

“Donald Trump will be our president. We owe him an open mind and a chance to lead.”

She thanked her running mate Tim Kaine.

“Tim will remain on the front lines of democracy representing Virginia in the Senate.”

She also thanked President and Mrs. Obama.

“To Barack & Michelle Obama, our country owes you an enormous debt of gratitude. We thank you for your graceful, determined leadership that has meant so much to so many Americans.”

To her supporters, some of whom were in tears, she tried to lift their spirits for the future.

“This loss hurts, but please never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it. It is worth it.”

As for her attempt to become the first woman president, she said:

“Someday someone will shatter the glass ceiling, hopefully sooner rather than later.”

“I count my blessings every single day that I’m an American. Our best days are still ahead of us. because I believe we are stronger together and will go forward together,” she said.

She gave no indication on what the future would hold for her personally. Former President Bill Clinton, daughter Chelsea and her husband were with Mrs. Clinton on stage.