Sanders concedes Nevada

Presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders has conceded to primary rival Hillary Clinton in the Nevada Democratic caucuses.

{mosads}The Vermont senator said in a statement Saturday afternoon that he called Clinton and was looking forward to continuing their race.

“I just spoke to Secretary Clinton and congratulated her on her victory here in Nevada,” he said in the statement. “I am very proud of the campaign we ran.”

Sanders said he was proud of how competitive he made Nevada, where polls at one point showed him trailing by double digits.

“Five weeks ago, we were 25 points behind and we ended up in a very close election,” he said. “And we probably will leave Nevada with a solid share of the delegates.”

Sanders said he believes the momentum is on his side as the campaign turns to the March 1 SEC Primary votes, pointing to his support among young people.

“I am also proud of the fact that we have brought many working people and young people into the political process and believe that we have the wind at our back as we head toward Super Tuesday,” he said.

“I want to thank the people of Nevada for their support that they have given us and the boost that their support will give us going forward.”

Before the Super Tuesday contests, Sanders faces a tough primary next Saturday in South Carolina, where polls show the former secretary of State with a substantial lead.