In testimony on Capitol Hill last week, Defense Secretary Robert Gates was asked about the conundrum.

CNN: Documents give insight into increased violence in Afghanistan

In the budget sent up to the Hill in April, Defense Secretary Robert Gates made hard choices.

WSJ: Grounding the F-22

What Gates says carries weight on Capitol Hill not because he's particularly cozy with politicians (he's not), but because republicans and democrats seem to hold his reputation as a chief executive and philanthropist in high regard.

FORBES: Magazine Article