The Communist Workers Party had a racial and economic analysis that was all too true. We've seen this with what has happened with Hurricane Katrina.

Engagement is an emotional issue. If workers are not appreciated by their superiors and co-workers, the emotional bonds holding them to the employer weaken. They become much more receptive to other employment opportunities where they will be valued.

It's all about the level-and sincerity of employee appreciation. Workers who feel taken for granted will not stick around when they have other choices.

It makes it easier for workers to make a fair choice.

First off, you have to have a good relationship with your party leadership and then you need to have good relationships with your colleagues in the House on both sides of the aisle. I plan on doing both of those things.

Our number one economic development issue is housing. Our critical industries — health care, manufacturing, the convention business — need workers, but there is this huge bottleneck because of the lack of housing.