McCain concedes defeat, congratulates Obama

Washington, Nov 5 (PTI) Republican White House nominee
John McCain Wednesday conceded defeat and congratulated his
Democratic rival Barack Obama for his "historic victory" in
the hard-fought U.S. Presidential polls.

In a emotional address to his supporters at Phoenix in
his home state Arizona minutes after CNN projected Obama as
the winner, McCain urged all Americans to shed their
differences and cooperate with the Illinois Senator to bring
the country out of the "difficult" times.

"I urge all Americans to shed their differences to
make the United States more stronger and better country for
our grandchildren," the 71-year-old Vietnam War veteran told
thousands of his supporters.

"I pledge to him (Obama) tonight to do all in my power
to help him lead us through the many challenges we face,"
McCain said flanked with his running mate Sarah Palin.

"The American people have spoken, and spoken clearly,"
the Republican nominee said.

McCain said it was a long and hard fought elections on
the 21-month long campaign trial and said it was a "historic"
victory for Obama.

"Tonight there will be disappointment. But, tomorrow
morning we will start supporting the President-elect," McCain
told his supporters. PTI
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