It is through states that the American people get the job done every day, often in spite of a deeply flawed bureaucratic federal government.

It's time to bring tough medicine to Washington. No longer will policy be set by K Street, it will be dictated by Main Street.

You see, as Americans we're not defined by class, and we will never be told our place. What makes our nation exceptional is that anyone, from any background, can climb the highest of heights.

We find ourselves in what I consider to be the most challenging, difficult, threatening time since World War II because of this War on Terror.

I think you need to have a tax system that basically is flat, fair and simple. And - that you can put on a post card. I mean, even Timothy Geithner could do this one and get it on time.

Being the Republican front-runner was three of the most exciting hours of my entire life. I've come to grips with it, and the only lasting effect is that I refuse to go on a stage that has more than one podium on it.

The great lesson of history for us is that strength and resolve bring peace and order, and weakness and vacillation invite chaos and conflict.