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Pressure for the most part comes from this overarching concern that if I head into the election season without sufficient resources, then any outside group, any individual, any super PAC may choose to come in to my district and overwhelm it and take over the airwaves and control the debate.

I'm doing my part, building plants at a record rate, having historic conservation levels. The only people not doing their part is the federal government that is siding with the energy companies against the interests of the people of California.

I'm asking regular folks to be my super PAC.

I think we have to look at the whole way campaigns are financed. The No. 1 problem is PAC and special-interest money.

It's time for grassroots citizens to have a president that's focused on them rather than the super PACs.

My focus has been on being a good congressman, and there is so much other work to do.

I've made it clear that I'm not taking special interest PAC money or accepting donations from lobbyists - ever. I want to represent the interests of the citizens.

I will use my position as chairman emeritus on the Energy and Commerce Committee to try to bring some common sense to EPA regulations.

I am strongly committed to pursuing the dual goals that Congress has assigned us: maximum employment and price stability.

The role at the DCCC as well as the role of chief deputy whip - I wouldn't be where I am in those spots if it were not for the speaker's approval.