I join the chair today in emphasizing the importance of these programs.

I'd have to say, Ms. Hersman, I disagree with you. Ukraine was the third power with regards to nuclear weapons.

Do you think other nations are going to look at that and think we can give up our weapons as well and be protected?

The commitment that we have expressed clearly, completely, and again, reflected in our budget...

The U.S. approach to Syria involves the entire government; there is no U.S. military solution to this very complex, long-term problem.

The Department of Defense's FY 2015 budget request reflects those critical choices necessary to address key intelligence requirements.

The effect on the industrial base is an important consideration, which was factored into the Department's investment planning and budget preparation.

Any changes in U.S. policy on Syria would be forged through a whole-of-government approach.

I am strongly committed to another round of BRAC; this is why it is included in the budget request.

We need a BRAC. We can't continue to carry overhead we don't need.

As I said, I will follow the law, but I have authority now, Congressman.

I am also well aware of your distinguished service as an aviator.

Since becoming a Member of Congress, one of my key policy concerns is how do we ensure that we have a robust agricultural sector.

With the proliferation of more advanced military technologies and other nations pursuing comprehensive military modernization, we are entering an era where American dominance on the seas, in the skies, and in space can no longer be taken…

I don't want to see them go out of business. And they can't compete based upon this higher wage rate which is being foisted upon them.

We have taken some sort of statistical model and applied it in realtime that is penalizing farmers who are trying to do this the right way.

I don't think this is fair. How we are grouped all the way with, again, oil field workers in Nebraska who--why is this happening?

I would appreciate any consideration you could give them. They have a long agricultural tradition there.