I feel very strongly, if you ask yourself the question, how would you like your children treated if they had a different sexual orientation than their parents, the answer is yes. They ought to have that ability in civil unions.

I believe marriage is between a man and a woman. But my state of Connecticut, the state of New Hampshire, have endorsed civil unions. I strongly support that. But I don't go so far as marriage.

I said why would you want to include that kind of a provision into an election reform bill? Had no place in it. So, within hours or less than that, we rejected -- I rejected.

I want to begin by commending you, Mr. Chairman, on your--and I am proud to be a cosponsor--first bill.

We are going to build a Visitor Center here at the Capitol.

Well, if I could on behalf of my country, it would be a wonderful ending.

I had one guy one time--the last one was about 15 years ago, and some guy showed up dressed as Abraham Lincoln.

I get teased a little bit by my staff. I walk around every single day of my life with a copy of the Constitution in my pocket.

Well, good. That is very helpful. I live, by the way--you mentioned Nathan Hale. I live in the town of East Haddam, CT, where he taught.

I decided that was enough.

If it does nothing else it will to get us talking about history and civics education around here.

I ask for your help, for, more than the decisions of a President, it is your hands that shall mold the final substance of our efforts.