What Reagan ushered in was a skepticism toward government solutions to every problem. I don't think that has changed

We have to stand up for these issues when it's tough, and that's what I've done. I did it when I was in the state legislature, sponsoring the Illinois version of the DREAM Act, so that children who were brought here through no fault of their own are able to go to college, because we actually want well-educated kids in our country who are able to succeed and become part of this economy and part of the American dream.

What is true is [Bashar] Assad got rid of his chemical weapons.

There are some who question the scale of our ambitions, who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short, for they have forgotten what this country has already done, what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

I don't oppose all wars. What I am opposed to is a dumb war. What I am opposed to is a rash war.

You have to be involved during midterm elections, you have to care about what happens at a school board level.

Young people: I understand this is important to you, but as you be thinking about climate change, the economy and jobs, war and peace, maybe way at the bottom you should be thinking about marijuana.