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There are good people in the lobbying industry. Lobbyists can serve a very useful purpose.

The most successful politicians are the ones who embrace their best traits while turning their liabilities into loveable attributes. And yet, many a candidate tries to run as something they aren't simply because the strategy dictates it.

Politicians are strong to the extent that they are ready to take serious decisions and fight for it.

My four years as governor, I never met with a lobbyist once, never. Not one lobbyist got in my office.

I have had lobbyists, and I have had some very good ones. They could do anything.

When it comes to helping make the country strong, we in Congress have an important role to play.

While one party may possess the levers of power, one party does not possess a monopoly on good ideas. Good lawmaking, after all, is about the ability to craft effective solutions.

Lobbying is a legitimate profession... Many congressional spouses act as lobbyists.

There are a lot of people in Congress who would never have made a great career or fortune in any other profession. But after they spend a while hanging out with the rich guys, they begin to feel they've been undervalued, and that an eventual seven-figure income as a lobbyist isn't just an opportunity, it's their due.

I am not a lobbyist. I am not a political activist. I am not a leader, as far as I'm concerned.