Reid statement on Massachusetts Senate victory by Repulican Scott Brown

Senate majority leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., sent the following statement about the victory by Republican Scott Brown over Democrat Martha Coakley in campaign for the seat once held by Sen. Ted Kennedy, D-Mass.

“The people of Massachusetts have spoken. We welcome Scott Brown to the Senate and will move to seat him as soon as the proper paperwork has been received. I want thank Senator Paul Kirk for his tremendous service over the last few months. His service to the people of Massachusetts in the place of his friend, Senator Ted Kennedy, was brief but honorable.

“While Senator-elect Brown’s victory changes the political math in the Senate, we remain committed to strengthening our economy, creating good paying jobs and ensuring all Americans can access affordable health care. We hope that Scott Brown will join us in these efforts. There is much work to do to address the problems Democrats inherited last year, and we plan to move full speed ahead.

“Regardless of the size of their minority caucus, Senate Republicans have always had an obligation to join us in governing our nation through these difficult times. Today’s election doesn’t change that; In fact it is now more important than before for Republicans to work with us rather than against us if we are to find common ground that improves Americans’ lives.”