“I applaud the Senate for their bi-partisan confirmation of Robert Gates to serve as the new Secretary of Defense. Secretary Gates understands the threats we currently face as a nation, as well as the nature of our enemies in Iraq and around the world. He has a long and distinguished career in public service in a wide variety of national security related positions, most notably at the CIA, the National Security Council, and as a member of the Baker-Hamilton Iraq Study Group.

“Secretary Gates is well prepared to lead our Department of Defense at this important time, and I look forward to working closely with him to support our troops and continue our efforts in the Global War on Terror.”