The best way to weaken the Assad regime at this time is through political, diplomatic and economic pressure.

The achievement of a full, frank, and just acknowledgement of the facts of what occurred in 1915 is in all of our interests.

I agree that our country faces a spectrum of threats and concur that strategic dispersal is a critical element in reducing risk.

A prudent manager has to look at all options when faced with significant budget pressure.

I agree that the Taiwan Relations Act has contributed to peace and stability in the region for over 30 years.

If confirmed, I will work with State Department and USAID in conducting the required risk assessment of contingency contracting from not just a legal perspective but also from the perspective of our long-term capability needs.

Sexual assault is a horrible crime and cannot be tolerated, ignored, or condoned in DOD.

I support efforts to reduce the military's energy needs and diversify supplies in order to increase military effectiveness.

I support the continuation of energy initiatives that improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Defense mission.

I believe the United States should continue to support France's strong actions to counter al Qaeda in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb's effort to establish a safe haven in Mali.

The ability of militant and terrorist networks to operate on Pakistani soil poses a threat to the United States, Pakistan, and other countries in South Asia.

I support the President's commitment to a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent as long as nuclear weapons exist.

The health and well-being of our servicemembers, their families, and civilian employees is of the utmost importance to me.

I believe the Navy and the Department of Agriculture also need to be involved.

The Department must take care of its people, not only while they are serving, but it is an obligation that continues through the transition to civilian life.

If confirmed, I will ensure future budgets and the upcoming QDR evaluate all options to maximize our strategic objectives.

The President has stated, and I agree, that the scope of the international mission in Afghanistan after 2014 should focus on two primary objectives: first, to deny safe haven to al Qaeda and its affiliates; and second, to train, advise, and assist the Afghan forces so they can maintain their own security.

If confirmed, I would work closely with Congress, throughout DOD and with our interagency partners to ensure the continued effective implementation of all of the relevant provisions of the Taiwan Relations Act.