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We can't make a decision based on PR value. We have to do what we think is right.

For me to do my job effectively, we need to continue to earn public confidence. That involves transparency and accountability.

If we want to truly regain the public's trust, we can provide greater accountability and transparency with a simple step. Let's start by communicating to our constituents about the votes we take.

When political and business leaders tell the public - any public - 'We don't trust you to make the right decision' - they prejudice that electorate against the very proposals they want it to accept and undermine public confidence in themselves.

Ethical decisions ensure that everyone's best interests are protected. When in doubt, don't.

Public servants should always be accountable and responsible for what they are advocating, and I challenge the American people to demand this from their representatives.

The public is very forgiving. So we're not trying to obtain some level of perfection that can't be obtained. But if you're straightforward and honest and your constituents trust you, they'll help you get through the times when you fall short.

There's no federal government agency that ought to be immune from having to explain the potential financial impact of an action they've taken or intend to take. We deserve the specifics.

Telling the public, 'We'll get to it later,' is inadequate. That's what the federal government does.

I just think we need more accountability and more transparency.