I don't think anyone knows more about the intricacies of the budget and the institutional culture of the Pentagon than Bill Lynn.

He is superbly prepared for this job, and someone that I admire immensely.

I recall 8 years ago at this time, when we had a significant surplus in the Federal Government after the Clinton Administration.

We need to move away from supplementals, I think the Secretary has said that, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs has said that--I certainly agree.

Now we are desperate for capital and desperate people do desperate things.

I think we've learned worldwide is that governmental capacity is such a critical element of stability.

I think it has to be viewed as a critical requirement for us.

the perception caused by civilian casualties is one of the most dangerous things we face in Afghanistan

Governor Mabus, you bring an extraordinary range of experience to the task before you. I think the President made a very wise choice.

I believe sharing accurate, relevant, and timely information... is critical to combating terrorism and ensuring national security.

The September 11 attacks illustrated a fundamental failure by our Government to share information effectively.

the September 11 attacks illustrated a fundamental failure by our Government to share information effectively in order to detect and prevent the attack by 'connecting the dots.'

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, major efforts have been made to improve information-sharing.

It's an honor to be here today. I'm particularly pleased with the appointments that the President-elect has made, beginning with Secretary Gates.

I can't think of anyone who has the experience and the capabilities to do this job.

I would agree that a separate track, with much more streamlined processes, is necessary to support operational forces.

To be blunt, military forces can buy time, but the success there ultimately will be some type of political accommodation.

There is a possibility that there could be a serious crisis of legitimacy that will impair the ability of a very dysfunctional government to function at all.