Political Quotes

“I wish to speak in support of the McCaskill, Ayotte, Fischer, and Levin amendment. Before we begin, I wish to thank Senators Levin, Reed, McCaskill, Ayotte, Fischer, and others who have been trying to carry the burden here to make sure that we reform the military justice system and the way the military operates vis-a-vis sexual assault and misconduct but at the same time make sure we still have a military that can continue to be the most effective fighting force on the planet at a time when we absolutely need it. If one believes, as I do, that our military is the best in the world, we have to ask ourselves why. Is it because of the equipment? We have great equipment. I would argue that the reason our military has become the most effective fighting force in the world is the way we are structured. If one is looking for a democracy, don't look to the military. The military is a hierarchical and paternalistic organization that is focused on meeting the challenges of the Nation, being able to project force at a moment's notice to deter war and, if war ever comes, to decisively end it on our terms. I have been a military lawyer for over 30 years. I have been assigned as a military defense counsel for 2\1/2\ years and a senior military prosecutor in the Air Force for 4\1/2\ years. I have been a military judge, and I have served in the Guard and Reserve, and on Active Duty for 6\1/2\ years. I have learned a lot, as a military lawyer, about the military.…”