You have to create circumstances where your first-tier leader knows what you are trying to accomplish, because he is the one who's going to get it done.

I always like to take my time and examine the two candidates, see not only the two candidates but the policies they will bring in, the people they will bring in, who they might appoint to the Supreme Court, and look at the whole range of issues before making a decision.

I understand that and I have had very candid discussions with Saudi leaders in the past. I respect their culture and their heritage and their traditions, but I think that they now, as they move forward, will have to start examining these traditions and these practices to see whether or not change is appropriate.

I can't deny that it will be a historic event for an African-American to become president. And should that happen, all Americans should be proud - not just African-Americans, but all Americans - that we have reached this point in our national history where such a thing could happen. It will also not only electrify our country, I think it'll electrify the world.

Luck tends to come to people who are prepared.

The United States is still seen as the leader at the world that wants to be free.

The most effective means of ensuring the government's accountability to the people is an aggressive, free, challenging, untrusting press.