I ask unanimous consent to speak as in morning business for 15 minutes. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. Defense Authorization

I rise today to address the majority leader's refusal to bring the Defense authorization bill to the floor. On Monday, the Majority leader came to the floor and acknowledged the importance of bringing the Defense authorization bill…

It is in our national security interest, particularly with respect to Iran, that we have a government in Iraq that is independent of Iran.

I think we need a long-term detention policy.

I think it's very important that we not put political considerations ahead of making sure that these individuals don't get back in theater to further harm us.

Secretary Stanley, how will the efficiencies initiatives decrease the number of the SES positions in DOD?

Secretary Stanley, is there standard OSD guidance as to when a position should be filled by a flag grade officer as opposed to an SES?

I am really concerned that we have strong JAG Corps.

Secretary Stanley, to what degree does OSD oversee the quantity and use of SES positions by the Services?

I firmly believe that we should not undermine our national security from our failure to make the tough decisions here and deal with the entire budget.

I appreciate the work that all of you do and thank you all for your service and your leadership.

I think that is very important in terms of this analysis so that we get this right because we need in my view to look at our grand strategic environment when we make the decision on what is appropriate in terms of flag grade officers.