I consider myself a Republican.

One of my favorite little sayings is, 'To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.

I have always voted for who I believed was the best person.

I will always be an advocate in terms of wars of necessity. I am just much more cautious on wars of choice.

Power... Military success is not sufficient to win: economic development, institution-building and the rule of law, promoting internal reconciliation, good governance, providing basic services to the people, training and equipping indigenous military and police forces, strategic communications, and more of these, along with security, are essential ingredients for long-term success.

A wild and crazy weekend involves sitting on the front porch, smoking a cigar, reading a book.

I have tried to maintain civil relationships with everyone I meet - and, even if I violently disagree with them, try to be respectful.