RODNEY ALEXANDER

I absolutely intend to return every penny given to me by my Democratic colleagues and Democratic leaders.

I didn't want to engage in a campaign where I was defending myself on those issues at every turn, so I just decided that I'd switch and run as a Republican.

I didn't have the base I needed to win the election.

I knew that there were several, among African-American leaders, who had been put out by me because of my failure or reluctance to endorse Sen. Kerry.

To be called a coward, I don't think that's fair.

We didn't do anything wrong... Some are frustrated that we did it this way.

Rather than producing tangible solutions to better this nation, partisan posturing has created a legislative standstill. Unfortunately, I do not foresee this environment to change anytime soon. I have decided not to seek re-election, so that another may put forth ideas on how to break through the gridlock and bring about positive change for our country.

I absolutely intend to return every penny given to me by my Democratic colleagues and Democratic leaders.

We didn't do anything wrong... Some are frustrated that we did it this way.

I didn't want to engage in a campaign where I was defending myself on those issues at every turn, so I just decided that I'd switch and run as a Republican.

I didn't have the base I needed to win the election.

To be called a coward, I don't think that's fair.

I knew that there were several, among African-American leaders, who had been put out by me because of my failure or reluctance to endorse Sen. Kerry.

Rather than producing tangible solutions to better this nation, partisan posturing has created a legislative standstill. Unfortunately, I do not foresee this environment to change anytime soon. I have decided not to seek re-election, so that another may put forth ideas on how to break through the gridlock and bring about positive change for our country.