Profile: Michael Castle (R) for U.S. Congress

Name: Michael N. Castle

Age: 69

Address: 200 Kentmere Place Wilmington, DE 19806

Employment: U.S. House of Representatives

Past Employment: Lawyer

Education: Hamilton College, Georgetown Law School

Past Political Experience: Delaware State Senate, Delaware House of Representatives, Lt. Governor, Governor

Campaign Website:www.castlecampaign.com

Thank you to the Community News for the opportunity to share how honored I feel to represent Delawareans both here at home and in Washington, D.C.

I am committed to navigating through the major issues facing us today -- such as economic stability, American energy independence, keeping our families and children secure, improving our education systems, pursuing access to health care for all and supporting our troops around the world.

My continued commitment to Delaware is to put people above politics and to work across party lines in order to find common ground on tough issues. My record of independence is clear -- for the past 16 years, Congressional Quarterly and National Journal magazines have ranked me as one of the most centrist members and most willing to work across the aisle.

I am committed to securing American borders and ensuring every child has access to a quality education as well as advancing medical research and improving our diplomatic relationships around the world. I have always judged each issue on its merits, not based on party allegiances. Because of that, I believe I am the right person to face the challenges ahead. A poll of Congressional staff conducted by Washingtonian Magazine named me the "#1 Bridge Builder." As today's political climate continually becomes more polarized, Washington needs more people willing to build bridges in order to make progress on the major issues facing our nation.

I have always maintained an open door policy with Delawareans so I can take those priorities to Washington -- priorities such as DAFB, federal community health centers, public schools and traffic congestion. Only through a collaboration of ideas and willingness to compromise can we make the tough decisions and move the country forward.