If confirmed, I will build on existing cooperation and ensure DOD continues to engage in regular consultations at high levels with Azerbaijani counterparts.

If confirmed, I would continue this progress in implementing the NAP and ensure the Department continues to lead by example on WPS issues.

I believe in a strong, healthy industrial base, and I am concerned that changes in the defense market may impact that base.

This is a far ranging issue that will warrant significant attention from me, if confirmed.

Sequestration may have irreversible impacts in the long term.

If confirmed, working with the Secretary of State and other interagency counterparts, I would carefully consider any initiative that seeks to reduce tensions and facilitate a diplomatic solution to the current tensions.

If confirmed, I will work to uphold and prioritize our security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region.

However, sequestration's effects would be disastrous for the Department and would necessitate a review of the new defense strategy.

I have deep concerns about Iran's destabilizing activities and recognize the many shared interests between the United States and Azerbaijan.

I believe that DHS plays a vital role in securing unclassified Federal civilian government networks and working with owners and operators of critical infrastructure to secure their networks through risk assessment, mitigation, incident…

I believe that modernizing nuclear forces and infrastructure is critical and should be a national priority.

Yes, the Department's ability to respond to contingencies is directly related to the funding it receives which is translated into military capabilities.

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

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.

I think Syria, the outcome there has far more important consequences for America's national interests than Libya.

I support an Army that is sized according to the defense strategy and the mission requirements that support that strategy.

If confirmed, I will work to identify appropriate exchanges and interactions to assist Taiwan's defense capabilities.

Submarines are critically important to our strategy and future; therefore, resources permitting, I would support plans to build two Virginia-class submarines in 2014.