"We're sad about some of the losses of members of great seniority and distinction in the Congress, and some very new members, who will no longer be serving with us."

"For 25 years, it has been my privilege to represent the city of San Francisco and the great state of California; to work to strengthen our vibrant middle class; to secure opportunity and equality."

"I have noticed... that men usually leave married women alone and are inclined to treat all wives with respect. This is no great credit to married women."

"It became clear to me that simply caring is not enough. To drive real progress, you have to change both hearts and laws. You need both understanding and action."

"In the course of American history, great steps are taken by ordinary people, and ordinary people are not perfect."

"I always say the strength of democracy lies in criticism. If there is no criticism, that means there is no democracy. And if you want to grow, you must invite criticism. And I want to grow; I want to invite criticism."