I would argue very strongly for the opposite, that if we truly want to stimulate the economy there is no better place to do it than in defense spending.

Not unlike what we saw in Iraq, the training of the military and the enlistment of folks into the military in Afghanistan has been on the rise.

This train wreck that was coming 10 years ago is here with respect to certain systems.

I wish we could do more of them [multi-year contracts].

We've obviously had some controversy with respect to WHINSEC, but with the changes that have been made, we now are providing a valuable service to our country because of the relationship that's been developed with Central and South…

I would simply ask you for the record, if this discussion does come up, and there is any consideration of changing current statutes relative to the definition of modifications within depot maintenance, that you commit that you're going to…

This year, Congress passed legislation authorizing fiscal year 2010 Active Duty end strengths for the Army, of 562,400; the Marine Corps, of 202,100; the Air Force, of 331,700; and the Navy, of 328,800.

I think the chairman and Senator McCain's bill does address this in a very strong way.

I simply want to get your assurance again on the record that you will address this issue as soon as you are confirmed and take whatever measures possible to fill the gap left by an additional brigade combat team not coming in order to help…

My point is that there is obviously disagreement in the military about what this number ought to be.

I think that still remains our weakest link there.

As Senator Levin said, we're going to take up this bill it looks like next Thursday.