Top Moments from Presidential Candidate Victory and Concession Speeches

Getting ready for election night 2024? Excited to hear presidential candidates give victory and concession speeches?

First, refresh your memory with top lines from speeches in years past!

Like Democrat Jimmy Carter losing in 1980 …

“I promised you four years ago that I would never lie to you. So, I can't stand here tonight and say it doesn't hurt. The people of the United States have made their choice, and, of course, I accept that decision but, I have to admit, not with the same enthusiasm that I accepted the decision four years ago.”

And Republican George Bush winning in 1988 …

“A campaign is a disagreement, and disagreements divide, but an election is a decision, and decisions clear the way for harmony and peace, and I mean to be a president of all the people, and I want to work for the hopes and interests, not only of my supporters, but of the governor's and of those who didn't vote at all.”

• What are the top lines or phrases presidential candidates have said in their victory and concession speeches?

• When was the last time those speeches were given on the day America voted?

• What was the only time both candidates spoke in the same city – and where was that?

• And … what year did both candidates speak outdoors?

Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly”

It’s the top moments from presidential candidate victory and concession speeches – since1980!

Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts.

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