The signs and buttons and bumper stickers have been taken down and packed away. The rallies and campaign speeches are now, mostly, over for this election season. Massachusetts voters joined millions of other people from across the nation in pushing for a new direction for this country. Yet, there are a few more things to say before we completely close the books on Election '08 in Massachusetts.

Thank you to everyone who made got involved and made such a huge a difference this year. Thank you to those who made phone calls, knocked on doors, held signs, showed up at rallies and talked to family, friends, co-workers and neighbors about this election. Volunteers are the heart and soul of a campaign. Nothing would happen without these folks who give so generously of their time.

This was Senator Kerry's message on election night in Boston for all the voters in Massachusetts:

"I am humbled to receive the support of voters from Williamstown to Provincetown and every city and town in between, and I promise to continue to prove worthy of your confidence in me over the next six years.

"Yes, we have challenges to tackle in this country and in Massachusetts. But the American people's remarkable reservoir of talent, innovation, resolve and selflessness has triumphed time and time again. Our history is one of not just overcoming challenges but of emerging from difficult times stronger and better prepared to prosper as a nation.

"I have always been honored to represent the people of Massachusetts and I can't wait to return to Washington with my friend Ted Kennedy by my side and continue to deliver for you and your families. I promise to continue the fight to win back our future and honor your faith in me."