"Though we didn't make it to the finish line tonight, the values we fought for and the communities we seek to improve will continue to light a fire in us, " he said.

CNN: Rangel as resilient as Harlem-area district he represents

We have seen some people, we will see more across America tonight who are clinging to hope and trying to make it useful to them.

CNN: Transcript of May 'CNN Money Summit: Money & Main St.'

"It's not about trying to make this city proud of your team tonight, but every night, " he said.

WSJ: Sabres beat Bruins 3-2 in shootout

Tonight he was shrewd enough to use them, and human enough to make it feel like something other than a gimmick.

FORBES: The public and private Letterman