"I called this press conference today to talk about a new challenge that i will face, a personal one – one that requires me, once again, to be an underdog and a fighter.  A few days ago, I was diagnosed with cancer, aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkins lymphoma, to be specific – which is a cancer of the lymph nodes."

“High taxes, over-regulation, and an anti-business attitude are clearly the cause of our economic problems.  Our economy is floundering, and too many Marylanders have been struggling, just to get by.  40 consecutive tax hikes have taken an additional $10 billion out of the pockets of struggling Maryland families and small businesses.  We've lost more than 8,000 businesses, and Maryland's unemployment nearly doubled.”

“In our proposed budget, we spend more money on education than ever before.”

“Cancer – regardless of the type – is a disease that has touched every one of us through family or friends.  It is my hope that in being candid about my battle, that i will raise awareness that will ultimately benefit others.”

“We are working around the clock to ensure Baltimore City remains at peace, as it has throughout the day.  The presence of the National Guard, Maryland State Police, and other law enforcement officials will continue in the days to come to ensure order is fully restored for the citizens of Baltimore.”

“We seek the freedom to compete without the undue burden of high taxes and bureaucratic regulations, which make us less competitive.  We seek opportunities to build better communities, better businesses, and better lives for ourselves, our children, and our children's children.  And most of all, we cherish both the freedom and opportunity to decide our future.  And today, we celebrate that freedom and opportunity.  What I envision for Maryland is not just an economic and fiscal recovery, but a rebirth of our spirit, and a renewed commitment to our common purpose.  …  One hundred years from now, I want Marylanders to say, "This was when Maryland's renaissance began."  …  Let us appeal to the better angels of our nature so that we can achieve the great and shining promise of Maryland.”

“According to a recent Gallup poll, nearly half of all Marylanders would leave the state if they could.  As a lifelong Marylander who loves this state – that just breaks my heart.”