Andy Harris released the following statement today: "First, before we begin, I want to thank all of our veterans on this Veterans Day. Without their sacrifices throughout our history, we would not be here to talk about our peaceful, free, and democratic elections in America. Remember our fighting men and women still in uniform in your prayers tonight. The last 17 months have been an incredible journey. This journey would not have been possible without the loving support of my wife, Cookie, and our five children. This journey would also not have been anywhere nearly as exciting or successful without the support of my dedicated campaign staff and the hundreds of volunteers from all over the First Congressional District who worked so hard on this effort. During this campaign, I have also had the privilege of meeting thousands of amazing, hard-working people throughout the district who just want to earn a piece of the American Dream. And I am truly humbled by the tremendous support I received from the voters on Election Day. Earlier today, I called Frank Kratovil to congratulate him personally on his victory in this long and hard fought campaign - and to wish him and his family well. We vigorously debated many issues throughout this campaign, but now it is time for us all to come together as Americans united to solve the many serious problems facing this country. President-Elect Obama and all those who serve in Washington DC will be in my thoughts and prayers. Obviously, the election results did not turn out the way I would have liked. But we all must celebrate our election process, and never take it for granted. Decades ago, my parents fled Communism and came to the United States with the hope of a better, freer life for themselves and their children. But I don't think they ever dared to imagine that this great country of ours would even give one of their children the opportunity to run for Congress. Their experience - the American experience - instilled in me a great respect for all our freedoms, and our democratic election process - even when the result of the election doesn't quite turn out as we would have hoped. For now, I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Maryland as a State Senator. As I have for the past ten years, I will continue to support all our families by fighting for lower taxes and less wasteful government spending in Annapolis - an especially important task in these difficult economic times. Thank you again for all of your support. God Bless all of you, and God Bless this great country we call America."