Lloyd Austin: “Sequestration will significantly increase the risk to readiness and ongoing missions in the CENTCOM AOR.”

If I’m privileged enough to be confirmed, I can pledge to you that I’ll be mindful, not only of the legal requirements that govern my conduct but also of the appearances to ensure that the public has no reason to question my impartiality.

the price of U.S. leadership is real, but it is far lower than the price of U.S. abdication.

We had to make some tough but responsible choices, and we prioritized near-term readiness.

we are in a global struggle between democracy and autocracy, and our security relies on American strength of purpose.