Thank you, your Holiness. Awesome speech.

I faced a lot of criticism as president. I didn't like hearing people claim that I lied about Iraq's weapons of mass destruction or cut taxes to benefit the rich. But the suggestion that I was racist because of the response to Katrina represented an all-time low.

We really don't need the United Nations approval to act. When it comes to our security, we do not need anyones permission.

"Statesman" presumes I'm out there giving opinions all the time about things, and no, I'm not interested in opining on a lot of subjects.

The great tradition of America is one where people can worship the way they want to worship. And if they choose not to worship, they're just as patriotic as your neighbor. That is an essential part of why we are a great nation. If you're a Jew or a Christian or a Muslim, you're equally American.

I think by not participating in the current political debate, hopefully I'm sending a signal that will help set a tone.

It's your money. You paid for it.