(updated 11/20/02)
Governor Don Siegelman Concedes the Governorship to Bob Riley

Democratic and Republican attorneys were sent scrambling after Governor Don Siegelman (D) called for a statewide recount of Alabama's gubernatorial ballots. That request brought an advisory opinion from Attorney General Bill Pryor (R) that unsealing official sealed ballot for a recount could be a crime. Probate Judges in some of Siegelman's strongholds challenged Pryor's opinion saying counties are allowed a recount under the Alabama Administrative Procedures Act. The Alabama Supreme Court then began to prepare itself to hear arguments over the issue, which threatened to open deep political divides between the two parties. But two days before the matter was to be heard by the Justices, Governor Siegelman conceded the race.

Here is a transcript of the final comments from Siegelman's concession speech, delivered Monday November 18th, 2002 ...

... I believe in Alabama, and I want more than anything to make sure every child knows that if they stay in school, there should be a good job waiting for them when they finish. I believe that with all my heart. I love all of Alabama's children as if they were my own.

This afternoon, I talked to my own children and to my biggest supporter and best friend, my loving wife, Lori, and members of my staff. And decided that a prolonged election controversy would hurt Alabama, and hurt the very people we've worked so hard to help.

Like you, I cannot be a part of any process that will hurt the people -- and the state -- I love so much.

This decision has been very, very painful for me because, in a way, I feel like I am letting you, my supporters, down. But, I truly believe that it would hurt Alabama more to go through such a divisive process.

So, for the good of the state of Alabama, I am tonight dropping my request for a recount. Congressman Riley will be Alabama's next governor, and I pledge to work with him to ensure a smooth transition.

To all of my staff and supporters: while our campaign ends today, the principles we fight for will endure. And I will fight alongside of you for what we believe in: better jobs for our families and more money for our schools, so that every child, regardless of where they're born or to whom, or the color of their skin, will have a chance to reach their God-given potential through education.

To the people of Alabama who gave me this job, it's been great, great working for you. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to serve.

For now, I say good night, God bless you, and ask that God's light continue to shine upon the great state of Alabama.

Thank you, good night. God bless you.

Click here for Governor Bor Riley's State of the State address delivered on March 4th, 2003

Click here for Governor Bob Riley's Inaugural Speech

Click here for the 11/20/02 story - Governor Don Siegelman Concedes

Click here for the 11/9/02 story - Governor Don Siegelman Challenges Close Election

Click here for the 11/6/02 story - Introducing, Alabama's Next Governor ... ?

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