Movies such as 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' in 1939 to 'Dave' in 1993 portray Washington leaders as the ultimate Everymen - decent people just like you and me, only thrust onto greatness.

Although we were never pals and occasionally butted heads, my relationship with Clinton and his wife, Hillary, made me a better journalist.

With gridlock the norm, Congress's approval rating is below 10 percent and the public has lost faith in its national leadership.

A presidential debate is a job interview. And voters look for certain traits in people applying to be president.

If acknowledging that racial misgivings and misunderstandings are still a part of politics and life in America, I plead guilty.

A dose of humility goes a long way in life and in politics.

Clearly, the Obama presidency hasn't wiped out racial prejudices.