I believe that the Syrian Opposition Council's fundamental motivation to end Assad's rule is consistent with U.S. interests.

I believe that a political transition should remain our goal.

If confirmed, I intend to focus intently on countering Iran's malign influence--including preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

There is room to grow and areas where we can strengthen our cooperation and partnership.

I understand that the senior military leadership have engaged in a year-long monitoring process and found that repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' has not had any impacts on readiness, effectiveness, unit cohesion, recruiting, and retention.

I think what you were pointing out is that ultimately what matters is what the President believes.

If I am confirmed, Senator, I will be a strong, have to be a strong advocate for the Defense Department.

It isn't just the dollars that affect this, but it's the planning, it's the flexibility.

So far they have not, and I have said and I've said in that same book that you're quoting from, that Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism.

I fully support the repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and value the service of all those who fight for our country.

I think the next few years are going to be as defining and as important in this country truly as any few years post-World War II.

The Pentagon is working off the Defense Authorization Act of 2013, which this committee passed.

The Pentagon is adjusting, and I think responsibly, to our future based on the Budget Control Act of 2011.

I've never thought engagement is weakness. I never thought it was surrender. I never thought it was appeasement.

I think it's always wise to try to talk to people before you get into war.

In this imperfect world, sovereign nation states possession nuclear weapons capability, as opposed to stateless terrorist groups, will often respond with some degree of responsible, or at least sane, behavior.

This is a huge issue that continues to loom large over our future and our security, and it will have, if confirmed, a lot of my attention.

I would commit to fulfilling any treaty obligations and any commitments to Congress and any consultations that Congress needs to be part of, absolutely.