new and challenging era. Californians can be proud of the role they played in this election - not just in choosing our next president, but in shaping the issues that were discussed and debated.

"I congratulate President-Elect Barack Obama and I look forward to working with him, from across the country and across the aisle. I am hopeful that President-Elect Obama will bring a spirit to our nation's capital that moves us past partisanship and divisiveness, and reminds us that we serve all of the people.

"Our country faces challenges in the months and years ahead. We must put our financial markets back on solid ground; continue to protect and fight for freedom; and do this all without wavering in our commitments to our environment, expanding renewable energies, and pursuing more affordable health care.

"I stand ready to assist our next president in meeting our challenges and know that the California people are eager to ensure that issues important to our state are an integral part of the next administration."

Schwarzenegger backed fellow Republican John McCain for the presidency. California First Lady Maria Shriver endorsed fellow Democrat Obama.

Source:  sacbee.com