We're on the wrong track in Iraq. As many of our most distinguished former generals and anti-terrorism experts now observe, our occupation makes a political solution impossible by fueling the insurgents.

I think we truly have a panel of real national experts on terrorism and the security of our borders.

I think it's easier than ever to hear only what you want to hear. That doesn't make a good citizen.

[On Thursday, however, MoveOn Executive Director Eli Pariser said the group has] no plans, and ... never had plans, to produce such an ad. ... we regret any misunderstanding that may have arisen because of anything that our staff member might have told USA TODAY's reporter.

It feels great to have your own views reflected back to you, and you feel so right, but actually it's very dangerous. Because to make good decisions, you need to have a clear view of what all the options are.

To be a good citizen, it's important to be able to put yourself in other people's shoes and see the big picture. If everything you see is rooted in your own identity, that becomes difficult or impossible.