Progress Illinois

On Saturday morning, Hillary Clinton bowed out of the race for the Democratic presidential nomination and threw her support to Barack Obama. She talked about Obama's “strength and determination” and his “grace and grit." She also urged her supporters to “work as hard for Barack Obama as you have for me.” It was a truly classy speech, which you can watch below:

Obama responded with the following statement:

Obviously, I am thrilled and honored to have Senator Clinton's support. But more than that, I honor her today for the valiant and historic campaign she has run. She shattered barriers on behalf of my daughters and women everywhere, who now know that there are no limits to their dreams. And she inspired millions with her strength, courage and unyielding commitment to the cause of working Americans. Our party and our country are stronger because of the work she has done throughout her life, and I'm a better candidate for having had the privilege of competing with her in this campaign. No one knows better than Senator Clinton how desperately America and the American people need change, and I know she will continue to be in the forefront of that battle this fall and for years to come.

The Obama folks have set up a page where supporters can thank Clinton "for her hard work and for supporting this campaign."

Also, be sure to read this piece from Clinton supporter Elizabeth Birch:

It will take some days, not hours. But recognizing the loss of one dream held by so many of Clinton's supporters, Obama supporters can help welcome them to the other equally important goal: electing the first African American President. Senator Obama knows that allowing some room to heal following this acutely emotional contest does not diminish his candidacy, it strengthens it. [...]

But we can be counted on to celebrate the other dream. Barack Obama will be tested in ways he never imagined, and we will have his back. We are just catching our breath.