I am committed to ensure that our 2008 Republican presidential candidates forthrightly address issues of importance to the African-American community.

I am not an African. I am an American.

I am famous because I am an African American jazz artist.

As Republican chairman, I am proud of my party and loyal to our members. But if Republicans are guilty of illegal or inappropriate behavior, they should pay the price and suffer the consequences.

I am committed to ensure that our intelligence community, law enforcement, medical professionals, and military have the information and funding needed to protect the American people from threats at home and abroad.

I am not an American; I am the American.