Keep in mind that in a lot of these articles on political websites, the author is just a contributor over which the editor of the site can add or subtract elements. It’s entirely possible that a website editor added this opening quote without Keyes’ permission or knowledge.
Not saying that is the case, but it’s possible.
Sure, I suppose it’s possible, but I could see Keyes doing it too.
I really do like Keyes, but he’s a bit quirky like that. Probably why he could never get any traction when he ran for office.