The forefathers of the United States were children of religious bigotry and persecution, and, as a result, fled Britain to create a new approach to life and government. They valued intellect and education. In fact, they outlined the principles of the United States' democracy to establish intellectual freedom from the Church.

The entertainment business is and always has been about money, and it's about, 'Does that person merit that salary?' The fact is that that the business, in my view, has been somewhat bankrupt for years - only the new media made it viable.

I am a legal immigrant whose parents went from Russia to China to Chile to finally reach the United States and thereby give me a chance to have a better life. I served six years in the U.S. Army Reserve, went to college, have a successful career and have dedicated my life to being a good citizen.

I have lived the American dream, and that is the dream I want for our children and all children everywhere.