Going back to high school and college, I believed I would be involved in public service. I literally could not conceptualize anything else.

My wife and family, to say the least, are the center of my life; they are my grounding. I don't want to sound schmaltzy, but they are my inspiration and you name it.

My parents were divorced when I was young. I was really brought up by my mother's side of the family.

I am very much a Red Sox fan; I can name you more players than you could possibly imagine. It's just part of who I am.

I didnt set out with the notion of running for elective office; it sort of grew over time. And I honestly at times questioned if progressive change can be effected through elected office.

While this has been a private part of my family's life, it is now clear a media story will soon emerge. My father tragically ended his life while battling terminal cancer in 1979.

I haven't smoked marijuana since I was at NYU.