“When President Bush endorsed the Federal Marriage Amendment, he let me know he would understand if I wanted to put out a statement. For me, that would have been so inappropriate. I signed on to be a staffer; I didn’t sign on to express my own point of view. … I passionately disagree with President Bush on the issue of the Federal Marriage Amendment. But I also make it very clear [in my new book] that I had no doubt, even with that disagreement, that President Bush was the absolute best person to be leading us at this time in our country’s history. It would be great to have the luxury of being a one-issue voter, but I didn’t, and, quite frankly, I don’t think our country does.”

“[A]t this moment in time, the past doesn’t seem nearly as important as the future. And though the movement we support deserves credit for much of the acceptance she is receiving, Mary’s presence on the national stage – the daughter of the vice president of the United States discussing issues related to our lives – is most welcome and has the potential to be a transforming moment for all Americans.”

“I don’t think coming out had a big effect on my career other than maybe to humanize me in a way that was good. People tend to think of celebrities, especially at the height of my TV show, not as human beings. And when you show your vulnerability or the parts you’re afraid won’t be accepted, it reminds everyone of your humanity.”