Kerry gives concession speech

John Kerry says he`s offered President Bush his congratulations. In a concession speech in Boston, Kerry said he had concluded, "We cannot win this election." John Kerry says he offered President Bush congratulations on his victory, says national healing is needed. Kerry said he would not have given up his fight if he`d had a chance of getting the necessary votes in Ohio to win that state`s 20 electoral votes. But he said it became clear that it wasn`t possible. Kerry said he hopes the nation can now "begin the healing" after a bitter election battle. Kerry said he`ll always be grateful to John Edwards, his running mate. He described Edwards as an "extraordinary leader" and a close friend. In introducing Kerry, Edwards told the crowd of supporters that the campaign may be ending today, but that the fight for "hard-working Americans" would continue. Kerry thanked those who had worked for his election. He told his supporters, "The time will come when your work and your ballots will change the world." And, he added, "It`s worth fighting for." Kerry promised to do what he could to "bridge the partisan divide." He called on supporters to find a "common effort" without any recrimination or anger. Kerry finished his concession speech by vowing to continue to fight for his principles. He said he`s proud of what he stood for and what he accomplished. He said his campaign stood for "real change" and a "real difference" in the lives of families. His supporters came to their feet with cheers and applause as he concluded, "God bless America."