We [the USA] do have a big nation's problem. We have the problem of a nation that's got two oceans, oceans on either side. People come from all across the globe and want to live here and they want to work here and they want to invest here. And that's a good thing. And they make up this country. But as a people, we [americans] are not highly skilled in languages. We're not highly skilled in knowledge of other cultures. And that's a problem.

Politics is human beings; it's addition rather than subtraction.

I think it's very useful for you folks (reporters) to try your damndest to be precise. And don't repeat things that are inaccurate if you can possibly avoid it. And when you see things that are inaccurate, knock them down -- because there's a bucket of it floating around.

When you raise issues with the President, try to come away with both that decision and also a precedent. Pose issues so as to evoke broader policy guidance. This can help to answer a range of similar issues likely to arise later.

A few. . . critics are the only people I ever heard use the phrase 'imminent threat.' I didn't, the president didn't.

To gain support in U.S. Congress and from other nations requires clarity, an acceptable mission and an explicit outcome.

Every president when he is elected has to live with the pluses and minuses his predecessor leaves, which includes benefits as well as burdens.