I think there are few, if any, decisions that will have a greater import than this committee's decision confirming or not confirming the Secretary of Defense.

his foreign-policy views laid out over 2 decades put him, in the words of the Washington Post, no conservative publication, near the 'fringe of the Senate'.

I would suggest that it is evidence that, at a minimum, would suggest further inquiry is justified.

I have repeatedly and explicitly praised his personal character and patriotism and service.

his long articulated views in the Senate have consistently made him the Senator who has expressed the greatest degree of antagonism to the Nation of Israel.

the world's bully

the perception and the reality

That ultimately is why the Washington Post described your foreign policy views as 'near the fringe of the Senate'.

I continue to believe, as I did when I cosponsored and voted for the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006, that any partner for peace must renounce violence, abide by previous agreements, and recognize Israel's right to exist.

I have real concerns about the United States acting as the world's policeman, and I take seriously George Washington's admonition that we beware foreign entanglements.

I also agree strongly with the doctrine of peace through strength.