Run-off Election Night

"Congratulations to Bill de Blasio for a very skillful and smart campaign. Were he to do as well as public advocate, it would be a good and a boon for the whole City.

"He had a strategy that correctly assumed that a great field operation in [an] unprecedentedly low turnout was the best route to victory. I had hoped that my record as an advocate would be a strong levee holding back the rising tide [of] political endorsement and unions and street organizers.

"It wasn't. He was proved right and won and deserved to. I wish him great success...

"I'd very much like to thank all of you, my wonderful staff and friends and volunteers and supporters for your loyalty and energy. And a very, very special thank you to the most capable, selfless and dedicated colleague [anyone] has ever had, [our] campaign manager, Anne Strahle.

"Then, of course, there's my Rock of Gibraltar, the love of my family... They've been put through too many campaigns.

"For now, I'll go back to writing and commenting and perhaps teaching, certainly Air America radio, to keep the progressive voice strong around the city and country.

"You'll be hearing from me, then, but not in elective office. I leave that to politicians more skilled than I. For me, campaigns were a route to public service -- not an end in and of themselves. Now, there will be other ways to serve, which I very much look forward to.

"So, good night, but not goodbye. Congratulations to Bill de Blasio and his family for what they've done and what they will contribute to this city. Thank you, Green Team."