Patient autonomy is paramount to the oath that we take when we enter the profession of medicine. That is why I am appalled when the federal government gets between my patients and their right to the full range of medical information and complete access to health care.

My job as a physician is to make sure I have provided my patients with the best options to make the decisions that affect their lives.

I was born and raised in California and benefited from California's excellent public schools, from kindergarten through medical school.

Just like you can't cure a patient without listening to what he's feeling, you can't cure a nation without hearing what the people are really asking for.

Washington's answer to a self-inflicted financial crisis reminded Americans why they so deeply distrust the political class. The 'fiscal cliff' process was secretive and sloppy, and the nation's so-called leadership lacked the political courage to address our root problems: joblessness and debt.

In some ways, being on the road is like summer camp. There's a camaraderie, but I'm also learning how to be more of a leader.

If America wants to retain its position as a global power, its president must listen to the people and show strong leadership at this turning point in human history.

Leadership that exploits and sacrifices young people on the altar of its goals is nothing more than raw, demonic power. Genuine leadership is found in ceaseless efforts to foster young people, to pave the way forward for them.