Andy Harris calls Frank Kratovil to concede

I'll let this go, as I know that Mr. Kratovil is sincere in wanting to get down to business and be the common sense congressman we know that he will be. But I really dislike Andy Harris his behavior was a character defect that simply should not be rewarded with higher office. His accusations and distortions of Wayne were shameless, taking down websites after the election that slandered Wayne and then moving right into suggesting that Frank took kickbacks as a DA.

Out of respect to Wayne and Frank's decorum and having to have dealt with Mr. Harris and what I know is their genuine concern for the district above pointing out what kind of campaign Harris ran, I'm happy that Frank won, that he will follow the 'traditional way' of how things are done in MD, and be a person who while I might not agree with his every vote, it will be a vote nonetheless never questioned.

Congratulations Frank, I have allot of optomism with your taking this office.



Kratovil Declares Victory, Harris Concedes
By KEIRA BENSON
(DELMARVA -- WMDT) 11/11/2008

He says, "I intend to do what in many respects is what I think Congressman Gilchrest did for many years and that is be an independent vote for the people of this District."

Once in office, Kratovil says he'll tackle the economy by pushing for a balanced budget amendment. But he says the most significant issue he'll face is balancing the interests of the industries in the District with the necessity of protecting the Chesapeake Bay. Something his supporters are confident he'll accomplish.

Kratovil Supporter Cindy Schwartz says, "The people of this District know you don't have to choose environment or economy, you can have both. Frank made that really clear."

Tuesday morning Republican candidate Andy Harris called Kratovil to concede. The conversation lasted less than a minute, but Kratovil described it as "cordial."

Harris says, "We vigorously debated many issues throughout the campaign, but now it's time to come together as Americans to solve the many problems facing this Country."

Harris waited for over 4,000 provisional ballots to be counted before conceding. As for what's next, Harris says he will continue to serve as a State Senator. As for another run in the future, he says, "Never, say never."

MY COMMENT: LET IT BE NEVER

While it was a disappointing day for Senator Harris, it was an exciting day for now Congressman-Elect Frank Kratovil. Tuesday he held a press conference to thank his supporters and look towards the future.

Kratovil Supporter Mike Eaves says, "He'll take the people of this District to Washington and he'll make us proud."

Many of Congressman-Elect Frank Kratovil's strongest supporters watched as he and his youngest made their way to the podium Tuesday. When he stepped up to the microphone, he was humble.

Kratovil says, "For those who supported me and voted for me, I will do my best to show you your support was warranted. For those of you that did not, I'll do my best to earn your support."

Kratovil will be the first Democrat to fill the seat in 18-years. But he says he won't go to Washington to follow any particular party.

He says, "I intend to do what in many respects is what I think Congressman Gilchrest did for many years and that is be an independent vote for the people of this District."

Once in office, Kratovil says he'll tackle the economy by pushing for a balanced budget amendment. But he says the most significant issue he'll face is balancing the interests of the industries in the District with the necessity of protecting the Chesapeake Bay. Something his supporters are confident he'll accomplish.

Kratovil Supporter Cindy Schwartz says, "The people of this District know you don't have to choose environment or economy, you can have both. Frank made that really clear."

Kratovil also talked about his plans to improve care for veterans and overhaul the energy policy. As for his current position as Queen Anne's County State's Attorney, he says he has two Deputy State's Attorneys who are interested. But he says the Circuit Court Judge will ultimately choose an Interim State's Attorney.