"I believe the U.S. Government only recognizes the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia."
"Incidents of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea are reportedly on the rise--I suspect inspired by the reports of riches from ransom payments made to Somali pirates."
"Would this encompass training/equipping security forces in Puntland and Somaliland?"
"How are we mitigating potential issues associated with links to warlords and individuals linked to al Qaeda, al-Shabaab, or both?"
"I agree with Secretary Gates' insight to leverage the capabilities that are conducive to our ever-changing operational environment."
"I too want to applaud Secretary Gates's focus on restoring budget discipline in the DOD."
"I think this committee is excellent, and I certainly think it is time that we try to mesh the two in a seamless fashion."
"I'm going to wait for the next panel, thank you."
"It feels like we ought to be doing something about that, too."
"I think it is essential to promote and deploy these new provisions as quickly as possible."
"I hear every day from small business owners throughout North Carolina that they have fallen victim to forces pretty much outside of their control."