Well, we lost a lot of our independence already. We are dependent on China for credit. We are dependent on Middle Eastern countries for energy supplies. And many Americans are dependent on the government for their income, health care, education of their children, food stamps.

Government-run schools can't instill morals and character.

I can tell you if you look at the polls, Democrats, Republicans, Independents, they do not think we should increase the debt limit.

Freedom solutions - cross-state insurers; health cooperatives.

Not federal government's job to do good deeds.

Cash-for-Clunkers program was a stupid idea.

Frankly, if independents and Democrats want to work with us on conservative ideas, I can do that better at Heritage than as a partisan inside.