Taking the fight to ISIL requires that we be flexible and patient in our efforts.

The President has outlined a framework for the authorities he believes will be necessary to pursue this long-term campaign.

I thank you for the opportunity to be before this committee today and to continue that process of coordination and consultation with you.

I am in favor of reintroducing to the acquisition system the role of the customer, which is the chiefs of the military services.

It hits everybody, and it hits them hard, and it hits them soon, which means that we don't have time to adjust.

The United States remains the strongest, most resilient, and most influential nation on earth.

They have really come through for us.

If confirmed, I will make this a high priority and hold our senior leaders, civilian and military, accountable.

I understand the Administration's policy to be that the determination of whether to try detainees in civilian courts versus military commissions is made on a case-by-case basis.

I am concerned that recent Chinese actions... has raised regional tensions and complicated efforts to peacefully manage and resolve territorial disputes.

If confirmed, I will assess humanitarian operations and assistance in the Kurdistan region.

The administration can assist Taiwan by evaluating the projected threat from China, consulting closely with Congress, and providing recommendations on defense articles and services appropriate for Taiwan.