But I am committed to keeping this city a strong and viable center for commerce and industry, for continuing to make it a place of opportunity for its citizens.

City employees will be hired and promoted because of their abilities - without outside interference.

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

The nation can no longer afford to continue policies that hasten the flight of persons to the distant suburbs.

The cooperation of government at its different levels is important and can only be achieved as long as the people of Chicago are directly involved in our efforts and supportive of our goals.

We must care. We must all care. And while I am working, while the governments is working, so must the people also work.

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