Norm Coleman has conceded the Minnesota Senate race to Democratic challenger Al Franken, following the state Supreme Court's 5-0 ruling today that Franken won the race.

"The state Supreme Court has spoken," Coleman said at an afternoon press conference. "I respect its decision and I will abide by its result. It's time for Minnesotans to come together under the leaders it has chosen and move forward. And I join all Minnesotans in congratulating our newest United States senator, Al Franken."

"The future today is that we have a new United States senator," said Coleman, who called Franken to congratulate him.

Coleman also thanked Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and her staff for carrying the burden of two senators for the past six months, calling her "an extraordinary public servant."

Coleman said he called Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) and "told him I was coming out here to make his life a little easier." Pawlenty has been pressured by Democrats to sign an election certificate, while feeling heat from the other side of the aisle to keep the fight going and prevent Democrats from getting the much sought after 60th Senate seat.

Following the court's ruling and Coleman's concession, Pawlenty released a statement saying he "will be signing the election certificate today as directed by the court and applicable law."

“I would like to thank Senator Coleman for his service," Pawlenty said. "As state solicitor general, Mayor of Saint Paul and United States Senator, he has been an extraordinary leader and public servant for Minnesota. I also want to congratulate Al Franken and wish him well as he serves the people of Minnesota."

President Obama also released a statement. "I look forward to working with Senator-Elect Franken to build a new foundation for growth and prosperity by lowering health care costs and investing in the kind of clean energy jobs and industries that will help America lead in the 21st century," Obama said.

Coleman, a Brooklyn, N.Y., native, was elected to the Senate in 2002 after serving eight years as mayor of St. Paul. His challenge to second-term Sen. Paul Wellstone (D) took a tragic turn 11 days before the November 2002 election when Wellstone died in an airplane crash. Coleman went on to win 50% to 47% for former Vice President Walter Mondale, who stepped in for Wellstone.

Coleman's concession speech can be seen here.