I’ve lived in Washington for nearly 50 years, so I have met all the presidents, many senators, many congress people, and many governors. And I always said the best politician – at the height of his political life – was Marion Barry.

To hate him is wrong, and maybe my ego got too caught up in, if I stood here maybe, maybe — just maybe — I could break this record of the man who tried to stop the rights upon which I stand. I’m not here, though, because of his speech. I’m here despite his speech. I’m here because as powerful as he was, the people were more powerful.

The hour has come for a new generation to lead the Democratic Congress that I so deeply respect.

To say you have no choice is to relieve yourself of responsibility.

Voting whether or not to remove a sitting President has been a truly difficult decision, and after listening to the arguments presented by both sides, I have reached my conclusion reluctantly. For the reasons above I must vote yes on the articles of impeachment. I take no pleasure in these votes, and am saddened this is the legacy we leave our children and grandchildren. I have always wanted this President, and every President to succeed, but I deeply love our country and must do what I think is best for the nation.

Stumbling is not falling

A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything.

Challenge yourself. It's the only path which leads to growth

We will all, at some point, encounter hurdles to gaining access and entry, moving up and conquering self-doubt; but on the other side is the capacity to own opportunity and tell our own story.