Live Chat: John Kasich

Aug. 1 -- — Rep. John Kasich of Ohio, who was part of the first wave of contenders for the party's nomination, joins his fellow Republicans this week to support George W. Bush.

Kasich, a member of the House since 1982, rose quickly in stature and became chairman of the House Budget Committee in 1994, beating out senior Republicans for the slot. Known as a politician who understands the meaning of compromise, Kasich worked closely with Minnesota's Tim Penny on the issue of government waste. Kasich took questions from ABCNEWS.com viewers in a live chat from the GOP convention. The chat was moderated by ABCNEWS correspondent Bettina Gregory. Look below for a transcript.

ABCNEWS' Bettina Gregory at 3:33pm ET

John Kasich joins us live from our RNC studio in Philly. Thanks for being here.

Rep. John Kasich at 3:34pm ET

What a pleasure it is to be with Bettina Gregory, who is such an important part of the culture of the media in America.

ABCNEWS' Bettina Gregory at 3:34pm ET

Congressman Kasich, can the GOP beat Al Gore in the fall?

Rep. John Kasich at 3:35pm ET

I think this is going to be a very close race, but I think the message of this convention, which is one of inclusion, and the message of bottom-up, will be very helpful to us. I think that the debates are going to be critically important.

ABCNEWS' Bettina Gregory at 3:35pm ET

We've had some email from a lot of your supporters, disappointed that your presidential bid didn't go any further. And, more than that, that you weren't selected to be Gov. Bush's running mate. How do you feel about the selection of Dick Cheney?

Rep. John Kasich at 3:36pm ET

Let me comment about my own situation: Running for president, I got a part in my hair, and being considered for vice president got me the physical I've been putting off for a long time. So I've had a great experience in the last two or three years, and while I am retiring from active politics, like the Terminator says, "I'll be back."

As for Dick Cheney, he is a partner that George Bush feels very comfortable with. That's what's most important when you select a running mate.

ABCNEWS' Bettina Gregory at 3:37pm ET

Congressman, you're leaving Congress. Does this mean you're leaving politics? What do you plan to do now?