and how fortunate we are indeed to live in the most diverse, dynamic and beautiful state in the entire union. you know, from the south bronx to the southern tier, from brooklyn to buffalo, from montauk to massena, from the world's tallest skyscrapers to breathtaking mountain ranges, i've met people whose faces and stories i will never forget. thousands of new yorkers from all 62 counties welcomed to me into your schools, your local diners, your factory floors, your living rooms and front porches. you taught me, you tested me and you shared with me your challenges and concerns - about overcrowded or crumbling schools, about the struggle to care for growing children and aging parents, about the continuing challenge of providing equal opportunity for all and about children moving away from their home towns because good jobs are so hard to find in upstate new york. now i've worked on issues like these for a long time, some of them for 30 years, and i am determined to make a difference for all of you.
you see, i believe our nation owes every responsible citizen and every responsible family the tools that they need to make the most of their own lives. that's the basic bargain. i'll do my best to honor in the united states senate.
and to those of you who did not support me, i want you to know that i will work in the senate for you and for all new yorkers. and to those of you who worked so hard and never lost faith even in the toughest times, i offer you my undying gratitude.