Dr. King's leadership reaffirmed the promise of our democracy: that everyday people working together have the power to change our government and our institutions for the better.

Thankfully President Obama has stood firmly behind women's health care issues by supporting coverage for contraception and reaffirming commitment to organizations like Planned Parenthood.

We're at the crossroads. Down one road is a European centralized bureaucratic socialist welfare system in which politicians and bureaucrats define the future. Down the other road is a proud solid reaffirmation of American exceptionalism.

Today I too wish to reaffirm that I intend to continue on the path toward improved relations and friendship with the Jewish people following the decisive lead given by John Paul II.