Isn’t this amazing?

After the privilege and blessing of a 600+ day campaign all over Rhode Island; after 43 community dinners, many dozens of senior center visits, and conversations with thousands of Rhode Islanders who welcomed me into their homes, organizations and neighborhoods; after listening and hearing the concerns, worries, hopes, and dreams of so many people; after so much help from people who came together to help in so many ways; and after a hard fought election promising a new direction, here we are!

On Tuesday, the people of Rhode Island gave me their trust to help bring a new direction to Washington. I am humbled by that trust, and proud of your faith that a new Democratic majority in the Senate truly was within our reach. Now, with the news that the 2006 Senate races have restored Democratic leadership, our hopes have become a reality. It’s a time for celebration — but also to get ready for hard, sustained work.

Our nation faces serious and significant challenges. Brave men and women in uniform remain in harm’s way in Iraq. Seniors suffer from a gaping hole in prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D. 46 million Americans lack health insurance and our health care system is a mess. Independence from foreign oil is not yet among our national priorities. All that needs to change. Our new Democratic leadership in the Senate and the House of Representatives must take these challenges on and more. But we also need you to keep the pressure on for these critical solutions.

It has been my honor to meet so many of you over the course of our campaign for change. You have delivered a great victory here that is felt across the nation, and I promise you that I will go down to Washington determined to vindicate your trust and to work my heart out for you, every day.

Thank you.