Both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama echoed the same sense of “never say die” spirit today in their speeches.

Washington Post - Clinton, Obama urge backers to accept Trump's victoryClinton, obviously weary from a long night that nobody counted on, pledged her commitment to support the new president. “We owe him an open mind and a chance to lead,” she said.

Clinton encouraged her supporters to rise above the disappointment of the election and continue to break down the barriers that hold any American from achieving their dreams.

“Our campaign was never about one person or one election. It was about building an America that is hopeful and inclusive,” Clinton said.

Obama offered the same advice for supporters, especially younger voters. “Young people have to stay encouraged, don’t get cynical,” he said.

Obama explained that the path the country has taken has never been a straight line, often zigging and zagging and sometimes feeling as though it’s going backwards.

In recounting his 3:30 a.m. call to Trump this morning Obama said he assured the president-elect that it doesn’t matter what their differences are, he and his team are ready to make the transition for the Trump administration as smooth as possible.

Obama reminisced how gracious president Bush’s staffers were when he began his term.

Obama credited Clinton with living an extraordinary life of public service. “Her candidacy was historic and sends a message to all our daughters that they can achieve anything they strive for,” he said.

“I think of this job as being a relay runner. You take the baton, run the best race you can and hopefully by the time you hand it off, you’re a little ahead and made progress,” Obama said.

Hopefully Trump has some good running shoes.