2013 Governor's State of the State speeches: on Principles & Values

Pat McCrory: When you try to appease everyone, you satisfy no one

But one thing I've learned, I learned during my fourteen years as a mayor, when you try to appease everyone, you satisfy no one. What motivates me every morning, when I'm so privileged to get up here in Raleigh as your governor, is the opportunity to be part of long term solutions.

Jay Inslee: Met wife Trudi in high school; 3 kids & 2 grandkids

I am a fifth generation son of the state of Washington, and am proud to have roots in this state that are as wide as they are deep. My family came to this state as fishermen and gold miners. I am proud of the working people of Washington, and I know their work, having driven bulldozers in Bellevue, painted houses in Burien, run the business end of a jackhammer, prosecuted drunk drivers and raised hay in the Yakima Valley. Washington has welcomed many people to our great state from all points of the compass, but no matter when you and your family arrived here, in our souls all of us in Washington are pioneers.

Sean Parnell: Americans are moving North to the Future

The question before us tonight is not: What is the state of Alaska? The question is: How can we keep the state of Alaska strong? Make no mistake: Our present prosperity does not guarantee our future security. The choices we make during this short session will have long-lasting consequences. So let us choose wisely and well.

Jan Brewer: Add "competition" to copper; cattle; cotton; citrus; climate

That is the clear answer when I reflect upon what I have learned these past four years, and what has changed across the three decades since I first sat in this chamber. Today, Arizona must COMPETE for the most desirable jobs for our citizens--the finest teachers in our schools--the most talented students and faculty in our universities.

And each of our citizens must likewise compete to earn a living, build a future and raise a family in a safe and healthy environment. They face threats that once did not exist. And we at this capitol had better make sure we are helping them--not hurting them--in their efforts.