Lloyd Austin: “I believe that sequestration will have enormously negative effects on the Services' ability to resource our efforts.”

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

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

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.

This is about the rules-based international order.