I really analyzed the project, talked to all the sides and stood on the shore.

Senator Kennedy and I have talked about this. I think that he has a point when he talks about the importance of having a regulatory framework to review offshore projects in federal waters. Where we differ is that he thinks we should have that regulatory framework in place before any projects proceed. I think that we have, in fact, built that regulatory framework over the course of review of this project.

We need a government that is what we are at our best. Smart, efficient, pragmatic and compassionate.

He has watched jobs and people leave. Mostly young, well educated people -- our future. But discontent with the Republicans isn't going to be enough. We have to offer to the people leadership with creative leadership.

I'd like to have another opportunity to serve. I believe in service. I enjoy it. I also like coming and going, you know, because I think that my private-sector life has contributed to how I think about public-sector challenges and what I do in the public sector.

My most vivid memory of my father centers on the day he left. It was warm, and my mother was especially short with Rhonda and me that afternoon, which I attributed to the heat. I was oblivious to the mounting hostilities in our basement apartment.