Compassionate conservatism [is] most importantly, making sure that government is not the answer to people's problems.

We are a people united by our love for freedom, even when we differ in our personal beliefs. In America, we are free to profess any faith we choose, or no faith at all.

We will export death and violence to the four corners of the earth in defense of our great nation.

Some have said we must not act until the threat is imminent. Since when have terrorists and tyrants announced their intentions, politely putting us on notice before they strike?

We know that men and women can be good without faith. We know that.

The only things that I can tell you is that every case I have reviewed I have been comfortable with the innocence or guilt of the person that I've looked at. I do not believe we've put a guilty ... I mean innocent person to death in the state of Texas.

There's a way to accomplish the separation of church and state and at the same time accomplish the social objective of having America become a hopeful place and loving place.