Senator Paul: I believe that defending this country is the primary and most important constitutional function of our federal government.

Our nation is at its strongest when we establish clear priorities.

For example, the irresponsible spending polices of the past decade have grown the national debt and weakened our defense capabilities.

The former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has even noted that the national debt is among the biggest threats to our national security.

Yet despite these clear warnings, little has been done to establish clear spending priorities to protect our national defense.

I strongly oppose the kind of reckless spending that has damaged our national security and would limit our ability to respond to threats.