Patience in the Congress is running thin thinner. Certainly, privately, there are a lot more conversations occurring across party lines about Iraq.

I've learned from being in the woods that titles don't mean much and that actions speak a lot louder than words - even in Congress. I always look for the people who want to act - people who want to run the river or climb the mountain - even if they're not members of my political party.

I brag on the Democratic Party. We're libertarian on social issues, it's live and let live. Fiscally, we're conservative and responsible, and were environmentally conscious.

It's the uncertainty, the challenge and the willingness to put it all on the line that draws a lot of people to climb mountains. That can also apply to a lot of other challenges in life, whether it's running for office, starting a family, going to grad school or taking all of your cash and assets and starting a business.

The Congress party is 120 years old. We are ready to face your questions, we are not under any kind of pressure, our slate is clean,

In the run-up to the Communist Party Congress later this year, inevitably there is always a period of tightening. It's almost like the weather -- it's seasonal.