And there was resistance to the temptation in Washington to turn these things into political talking points, but allow them instead to be more organic and focused on the substance -- and not just on fiscal issues, as I said, but immigration reform, gun violence, energy independence, education -- the whole range of issues that are the President's priorities and they also happen to be the American people's priorities.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

I've seen firsthand that spirit of independence and spirit of self-reliance.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Holds a Town Hall in New Hampshire

And I have been very clear, that in my view, the police should have operational independence - they should be able to pursue investigations in the way in which their professional judgement suggests.

BBC: In quotes: Damian Green arrest

Having read every eyewitness account of what happened there in 1775 that I could find when writing a book about America's war of independence, I would argue that there is pretty good evidence that the locals fired first - albeit when the British redcoats were running towards them, intent upon assault.

BBC: Boston's past lessons on the truths people believe