Good and solid analysis and a formal way of looking at a problem [are the core ingredients of good decisions].

I think the American people want to see what we want to see, and that is for the Iraqi people to have a free, open, fair election, for their forces to be built up, for our reconstruction money to be used well, and for Iraqi security forces to take over so we can start bringing our troops home.

Have a sense of humor to break the tension in times of great toil.

I don't know that there is much the United States can do except work with the international community.

How often have we seen politicians take a principle position only to give it up three days later? That is what makes democracy so fascinating.

Don't let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.

Nobody wants to be in a mediocre organization. You don't have the same energy flowing through.