If you look at U.S. history through religious history, there is very much a motif that shows the importance religion has played in the U.S. We're a very religious country and it affects the way we look at various political issues.

I think the jobs [at the top] are unbelievably difficult, and there is nothing easier than second-guessing people.

I felt that America's duty was not to try to do everything itself, but to foster a sense of commitment that would bring out the best in every country.

Iraq is a long way from the U.S., but what happens there matters a great deal here. For the risks that the leaders of a rogue state will use nuclear, chemical or biological weapons against us or our allies is the greatest security threat we face.

I am by nature a worried optimist.

For me, America is really, truly the indispensable nation.

My mind-set is Munich. Most of my generation's is Vietnam.