SEATTLE -- In a light-hearted announcement at a news conference, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels conceded in the top-two primary race, ending his eight-year run at City Hall.

Nickels said that when he became mayor in 2002, he promised to "make the right decisions for the future of the city, rather than ones that would preserve my personal popularity. Based on Tuesday's primary election results, I have succeeded beyond my wildest dreams."

WATCH IT: Mayor Nickels Gives Up Quest For Third Term

During the announcement, Nickels chronicled his achievements and said the city was ready for new leadership, adding that nothing in his future career would top his stint as Seattle mayor.

A statement from Gov. Gregoire said, “I want to thank Mayor Nickels for his decades of public service. Mayor Nickels made it a priority to improve the lives of those not only in Seattle, but across the state.”

“I commend Mayor Nickels’ advocacy to combat climate change, which has led to national accolades and laid a strong foundation in Seattle and Washington state, “ Gregoire said.

T-Mobile executive Joe Mallahan and Sierra Club activist Mike McGinn will now advance to the general election.

Friday election results showed McGinn leading with with 27.6 percent, followed by Joe Mallahan with 27.01 percent. Full story

When asked which candidate he preferred, Nickels said, "I haven't decided who I'm going to vote for, much less an endorsement."

Several issues dogged Nickels during his tenure as mayor, including the Sonics' move to Oklahoma City, his support for a multibillion-dollar tunnel to replace the Alaskan Way viaduct and criticism of the city's response to a series of three snowstorms last December that paralyzed the city.

The mayor told the crowd he would work hard during his last 131 days on the job.