"allowing budget sequestration--the cavalier discussions I've seen in some newspapers recently by Members of Congress about the fact that it's reality and we probably can't change it makes absolutely n..."
"To my way of thinking, that's the way you ought to make revenue and spending decisions, in accord with a budget, rather than through gimmicks like sequester."
"It is still kind of hard to contemplate that if confirmed you would be the first enlisted person to hold the position of Secretary of Defense."
"the unacceptably high rate of unemployment of folks exiting military service."
"The Iranian nuclear threat is a much bigger one. It is very clear that if Iran gets nuclear weapons that other nations will start to do the same thing."
"I strongly support U.S. accession to the Law of the Sea Convention."
"Becoming a party to the Law of the Sea Convention would enhance the U.S. security posture around the globe."
"This strategy is heavily dependent on the maritime forces of the Navy and the Marine Corps."
"I am going to vote for Senator Hagel's nomination to be Secretary of Defense for three reasons."
"I think we owe deference to a President for choices to executive positions."
"I want our Secretary of Defense to go to sleep every night and wake up every day worrying about our men and women."
"I am going to be an incredible stickler on the need for an executive to consult with Congress."