The democratic process is only as great as the people who participate in it.

That future depends on the values of self-government, our sense of duty, loyalty, self-confidence and regard for the common good. We are a diverse country, and getting more diverse. And these virtues are what keep this great country together.

Far too often we see attention paid to the firearm and not the criminal.

The American flag, Old Glory, standing tall and flying free over American soil for 228 years is the symbol of our beloved country. It is recognized from near and afar, and many lives have been lost defending it.

With a nation at war against terrorism and our men and women on the front line defending our homeland from abroad, resources need to be prioritized and allocated properly.

The willingness of America's veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude.

All are free to believe or not believe; all are free to practice a faith or not. But those who believe must be free to speak of and act on their belief