November 20, 2008 Ted Stevens' goodbye to the Senate Play video

(NECN) - Embattled Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) gave his farewell speech to the Senate on Thursday, thanking his colleagues and staffers for their support over the longest serving Republican career in the Senate's history.

He also took time to reflect on why he was most proud of his career.

"My motto has been here 'To Hell with politics', just do what's right for Alaska" said Stevens. "And I've tried every day to live up to those words."

But Stevens stopped short of running down a resume of accomplishments in his six-term Senate career.

"Mr. President, I don't have time today to recount the highlights of forty years of work in this body," Steven said. "I will take time, however, for me to acknowledge the friendships I have enjoyed with many of my colleagues and Senate staffers."

Stevens said that he would continue to work for the improvement of the state of Alaska.

"I close by saying and asking that God bless Alaska and our Governor. God bless the United States and our President. And God bless the Senate and every member of this body. I yield the floor for the last time."

Stevens then received a standing ovation from his Senate colleagues.

Stevens lost his bid for re-election to Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich last week.