my broad priorities for defense energy investments will be those that: increase military capabilities, provide more mission success, and lower total cost.

The Nation's long-term energy security would benefit from a competitive, domestic renewable fuels industry; as a major consumer of liquid fuels, the Department would benefit, as well.

If confirmed, I will ensure that the Department's energy investments comply with congressional authorizations.

I agree with the Defense Department's new strategy and move to rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region while maintaining focus on challenges in the Middle East.

It is vitally important that they be ready to respond to the Nation's needs, and I am concerned that further budget cuts will negatively affect readiness.

Maintaining ready forces is a priority.

The President has been clear that U.S. economic and security interests are inextricably tied to the Asia-Pacific.

If confirmed, I will focus on strengthening our relationships, building the capacity of key allies and partners.

Only after there is a change in regime in Syria and serious changes in the regime's behavior in Tehran, can we conceivably think about long-term relationships.

North Korea's December Taepo Dong II missile launch and recent threats to conduct a third nuclear test underscore the growing North Korean threat to international peace and security.

I fully support the Taiwan Relations Act.

I believe that it is critical that the U.S. military maintain a robust presence in the region to counter Iran, reassure our partners, and build partner capacity.

If confirmed, I would of course place great weight on the assessments and recommendations of combatant commanders...

The enhanced bilateral military relationship we have developed with Russia under the reset is worthwhile.

I support the President's plan to transition full security responsibility to the Afghan National Security Forces by the end of 2014.

The President has said Assad must go, and a democratic political transition should remain our goal.

I do not believe that providing lethal support to the armed opposition at this time would improve the terrible situation in Syria.

I fully supported the withdrawal of all U.S. combat forces from Iraq by December 2011 in accordance with the November 2008 U.S.-Iraq Security Agreement.