French President Nicolas Sarkozy conceded to Socialist challenger Francois Hollande after polls closed Sunday and exit polling showed Hollande leading 51.9 percent to 48.1 percent.
“I carry the entire responsibility for this defeat, and I’m going to say why. I fought for the values of responsibility, and I’m not a man who does not accept his responsibilities,” Sarkozy said from his campaign headquarters in Paris. “I’m ready to become a French person amongst French people, and more than ever I have the love for my country deeply ingrained in my heart.”
Meanwhile, Hollande delivered his victory speech, in which he talked about a return of hope.
“Many people have been waiting for this moment for many long years. Others, younger, have never known such a time. … I am proud to be capable to bring about hope again,” Hollande said.
