Steve Kagen reacts to 8th Congressional District loss

APPLETON - What started with an enthusiastic chant- and cheer-filled welcome for Democratic U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen quickly turned disappointment and tears for supporters.

"Tonight the people Wisconsin have spoken in a clear message that they want to choose a different direction with Reid Ribble," said Kagen. "I called Reid a few moments ago and conceded and give him the victory he has earned."

Kagen made his concession speech to a group of supporters at the Paper Valley Hotel with just more than 50 percent of the precincts reporting.

"I think he's one of the most amazing Congressmen in the House and to lose that seat, I'm obviously torn up," said Carmen Canavan through tears, who worked on Kagen's campaign.

Kagen based his campaign strongly on creating American jobs. He was also a strong supporter of the controversial health care reform bill, as well as the economic stimulus.

"I think they have a short memory," Mike Lecker of Appleton said of voters. "The Republican Party got us into this mess and they're voting Republicans back in, thinking they're going to get us out of this mess. It's not going to happen."

Kagen says he is proud and honored to have represented the people of Northeast Wisconsin for the past four years. He says he stood up for the people against big banks, and big business.

"Corporations have no Constitutional rights, we the people do," said Kagen, which was met by cheers.

Kagen served two terms in Congress. In the more than 100-year history of the 8th Congressional District, a Democrat has never won three consecutive elections.