I thought the irreducible requirements of Republicanism were being for life, small government, and a strong national defense.

The No. 1 purpose of the federal government is national defense.

If you like small government you need to work hard at having a strong national defense that is not so militant. Personal liberty is the purpose of government, to protect liberty - not to run your personal life, not to run the economy, and not to pretend that we can tell the world how they ought to live.

I want to compliment The Heritage Foundation for its work on behalf of a strong national defense.

Ronald Reagan's vision of smaller government, less taxes, and a strong national defense has led to a prosperous America. As president, he rebuilt our military and reinvigorated our confidence in ourselves.

I believe that wholeheartedly - that we have to maintain a strong national defense.