Sound and accurate journalism defends our democracy. It's one of the most effective weapons at our disposal to contain the power-hungry. I've always … - Robert Redford

[On the Deepwater Horizon oil rig environmental disaster] The Gulf disaster is worse than a terrible oil leak. It’s the product of a failed energy policy that looked at profits before people and environment.

There was a time during a period of national crisis when politicians from both sides of the aisle put partisan politics aside to uncover the truth. There was a time when Democrats and Republicans united to navigate a peaceful ending to a corrupt and criminal presidency. There was a time when members of Congress placed defending our democracy above party interests for the greater good.

I've always appreciated diversity. I believe that American culture is founded on diversity and for this reason it is still alive and inspiring. I grew up in what you might call an unfortunate part of Los Angeles, where there wasn't much to do but experience the differences, go to different places, and hear different stories.