McGinn: 'I was always trying to do the right thing'

SEATTLE -- One-term Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn conceded defeat to State Sen. Ed Murray Thursday morning at his campaign headquarters in the International District, taking time to reflect with media members on his campaign and a term in office that "changed the city's agenda."

A humble and proud McGinn took to the podium around 10:30 a.m. to congratulate mayor-elect Murray, saying the state legislator had run a strong, well-funded campaign. He said he has high hope for Murray's time in office, commenting that he and Murray were not far off ideologically on many issues.

Still, he reminded citizens of liberal Seattle that even a progressive mayor needed to be checked often and held accountable.

"We still need to move forward," he said.

When asked why he thought he lost the race, McGinn said he was outspent nearly 2-to-1, and that his divisive, sometimes confrontational approach didn't always make him friends.

"I think sometimes I rub people the wrong way," McGinn said. "But I hope people know I was always trying to do the right thing."

McGinn would not answer definitively whether or not he would run for office in the future. He said he "fell into politics" the first time, and that if the "stars alligned," he could see himself running for a different position.

Right now though, he said, he had plenty to focus on in the remainder of his term. He hopes to wrap up a fourth quarter budget, work on policy issues and ease Murray into office with a smooth transitional period.

McGinn often smiled while reflecting on his time in office, saying he indeed loved the job he was soon to lose.

"I love it," he said. "Every last piece of it. I would love to continue doing it."

Murray will take office on Jan. 1.



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