On this important anniversary, we must remember that while we have come a long way in eliminating barriers, critical work remains to ensure all Americans can live up to their full potential.

As American taxpayers know too well, the tax code is incredibly complex and compliance is all to expensive.

We also need to strengthen the security of our borders and ports and strictly control immigration.

I strongly support the call to greatly expand our human intelligence capability to penetrate al Qaeda and gather critical intelligence to prevent terrorist attacks on our homeland.

I strongly agree that a National Intelligence Director should be established to oversee and coordinate the 15 federal intelligence agencies.

My fellow Minnesotans join me in mourning the loss of America's 40th President and celebrating the life of a man who personified both the greatness and goodness of America.

Always the eternal optimist, President Reagan instilled confidence and optimism at a time both were in short supply in our country.