As the US Senate primary race was decidedly close, we have spent the entire day analyzing the election data. We believe in the people of Maine and take great pride in our election process. While close, the data confirms the choice they have made in selecting Jean Hay Bright as the Democratic candidate for US Senate. As a result, we have concluded that no further purpose could be served in seeking a recount.

As such Eric Mehnert is releasing the following concession:

The last six months have been some of the most exciting and rewarding months of my life. I've had a unique opportunity to meet people from all over the state of Maine. People who share my belief in our Constitution; who share my belief in the social contract and who wholeheartedly believe in the core values of this country.

I want to thank all the volunteers who supported me throughout this campaign. I could not have gotten this far without the people who have stood beside me and who joined me on my journey throughout the first and second congressional districts.

Jean Hay Bright has traveled many of the same roads as I have, running a solid campaign based on her values and beliefs. I admire her courage for standing up for those beliefs and look forward to supporting her as the Democratic candidate for US Senate.

Thank you.
Eric Mehnert