I intend to do all I can to both keep America safe, and keep America special.

Here we will solve with laws and dollars, problems that too many people around the world still must solve with violence and civil war.

The Hispanic community understands the American Dream and have not forgotten what they were promised - that in the U.S., a free market system, allows us all to succeed economically, achieve stability and security for your family and leave your children better off than yourselves.

We are still a country where hard work and perseverance can earn you a better life... Yet we are rightfully troubled that many of our people are still caught in what seems to be a pervasive, unending financial struggle... every American deserves an equal opportunity to achieve success.

When I got to the Senate, one of the things that most bothered me is this lack of urgency about the major issues.

Let me start by saying that I do not enjoy nor relish the partisan role of attack dog. I never found any fun in that. I don't think it's constructive. I don't intend to become that here in the Senate.

No matter where I go or what title I may achieve, I will always be the son of exiles.