The American people have rendered their decision. I am a Democrat, and I firmly believe in the rule of the majority.
I have had a long career in elective public office. Yesterday was the twenty-first time that my name appeared on the ballot in New York State. I am happy and content, taking my place as a high private in the ranks of American citizens. I have a heart full of gratitude to all the people who worked so untiringly to promote my candidacy and to all those who cast their ballots for me.
Source: "Never to Run Again, Gov. Smith Declares," New York Times, November 8, 1928, p. 1.
Al Smith, Statement Conceding the Presidential Election Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/345971