Political success is often dependent on the ability to be heard above the din of controversy and debate and to set a course with one's own compass.

Our right to disagree is precious but fragile. The best way to protect and preserve it is to let the other side speak without demonizing them or destroying their right to be heard. Such civil exchanges are the heart beat of democracy - essential to keeping it alive.

If we are serious about providing upward mobility and building a skilled workforce, pre-school is the place to begin.

We see the world through the lens of all our experiences; that is a fundamental part of the human condition.

Without putting the brakes on out-of-control campaign contributions from individuals and corporations - it will be business as usual, with 1 percent of Americans pulling the strings.

We continue to blame the poor for their own condition. They are lazy. We do not want to know that the poorest of the poor are toddlers under three years of age.

Working moms, and increasingly working dads, don't want a government handout, but they do need a hand up.