Chicago’s neighborhoods have always been the city’s greatest strength.

I am a Democrat. I have been one all of my life.

In the days and months I spent walking through the various communities of this city, I found that Chicago did not work for everyone, however.

I accept that responsibility and ask only that I be judged by my performance as its chief executive.

Be assured that I did not become the Mayor of Chicago to preside over its decline.

But as important as the job to be done by government in the neighborhoods, the people must also be involved.

As I visited the various neighborhoods in the campaign, I learned fast that it's a mistake to think that all of the wisdom and possible solutions to our problems are available only in this building.