U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud began bidding farewell Thursday to Congress after 12 years of serving the state’s 2nd District, giving a heartfelt thanks to the people of Maine and predicting that the state’s delegation will continue to fight gridlock.

The Maine Democrat delivered his farewell statement into the Congressional record on Thursday as he prepared to make his final votes.

He said he’s confident that Maine’s delegation will continue to work together to achieve results instead of getting caught up in partisan bickering, even as the Obama White House and House Republicans joined forces Thursday to try to pass a $1.1 trillion spending bill.

“Despite the partisan gridlock we see all too often here in Washington, Mainers are known for our tenacity and our willingness to roll up our sleeves and get things done. We have a proud history of well-respected lawmakers who have done just that, from Margaret Chase Smith to George Mitchell to Olympia Snowe,” he said.

Michaud became a member of Congress after defeating Kevin Raye in 2002. He has not said what he’s going to do next but is expected to take some time off after a grueling campaign.

Michaud gave up his congressional seat in a bid to unseat Republican Gov. Paul LePage. LePage won re-election in a race that also included Independent candidate Eliot Cutler.

Republican Bruce Poliquin is taking over the open 2nd Congressional District seat. Poliquin defeated state Sen. Emily Cain.