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For a person of my sensibility, you're only left with the Democratic party.

During my first term in Congress, I signed a pledge that I will take no more earmarks and I've been faithful to that pledge.

I belong to the Democratic Party.

I am, you know, a Democrat through and through. I've always voted Democratic. You know, that is where my heart lies.

I am not here as my party's nominee. I am unique among the 100 senators in that regard.

I actually defeated an incumbent Republican senator who was part of the Jesse Helm's political machine in North Carolina, the result of which is I'm now the senior senator from North Carolina instead of Jesse Helms, which is a very good thing for this country.

I've been a Democrat all my life.

Earmarks have become a symbol of a Congress that has broken faith with the people. This earmark ban shows the American people we are listening and we are dead serious about ending business as usual in Washington.

I'm a liberal Democrat, and I state that proudly.