We believe that it is very important that we have hopefully averted what would have been the most substantial headwind of all, which is a default for the first time in our history, and that that will contribute to a more positive environment that we hope will allow for greater growth and job creation.

I think we ought to all take a step back and remember where we were 24, 48 hours ago, a week ago, two weeks ago - the prospect that was hanging out there that America would not honor its obligations for the first time in its history, and the impact that would have on our economy and the global economy.

Congress passes bills that appropriate money. Congress says, 'We're building this bridge or funding that defense project, and they cost this much.'

The White House doesn't create jobs. The government together - White House, Congress - creates policies that allow for greater job creation.

Equality as a principle is at the heart of our democracy.

I think that what I'm interested with is the creative side of music-making, rather than all the travelling.

I'm a democrat. I will fight until the end to defend democracy and the will of the people.

It really hasn't been demonstrated at any level by any major corporation that it can nurture what is euphemistically called creativity.