As the extent of the Democratic rout became apparent Wednesday with Republicans likely losing control of the Senate, President Bush promised to work with the new leaders of Congress and Democrats moved quickly to consolidate power and pushed for a new path in Iraq.
"I'm, obviously, disappointed with the outcome of the election, and as the head of the Republican Party, I share a large part of the responsibility," said Bush, who described the results as "a thumpin." "I told my party's leaders that it is now our duty to put the elections behind us and work together with the Democrats and Independents on the great issues facing this country."
At the top of that list is the war in Iraq, and Democratic leaders expressed a measure of conciliation toward Bush and the Republicans as they began to lay out their agenda.
"This is something that we must work together with the president," said Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who is expected to be the next Speaker of the House, replacing Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.).
Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), who would become the Senate majority leader assuming the Virginia race is finally called for Democrat Jim Webb, said the election confirmed Democrats' call for a change in direction, particularly on Iraq. Article continues....
