Tocqueville talked about "ceaseless agitation," citizens constantly use their institutions, constantly challenging them, constantly insisting upon their rights. It's also individuals taking responsibility for other individuals, recognition that no democracy works if they're weaklings.

And we believe that our policies toward Iraq simply are to protect the region and to protect Iraq's people and neighbors.

I really wish that we had passed a comprehensive immigration bill because that would've really helped our country.

Multiethnic character of America is very attractive to people. They also see a place where you get ahead, not because of where you came from, but because of where you want to go.

I think the word of the United States has been as good as gold in its international dealings and its agreements.

The quicker we get about the business of reducing our reliance on oil the better.

To see an African-American elected president means that this country is really finally coming full circle from the birth defect of slavery.