It is sometimes difficult for Americans to understand how Japan will fund programs like missile defense if it continues to adhere to the de facto constraints of the 1-percent cap on defense spending.

We want the Japanese-American alliance to be a global alliance that will contribute to the peace and stability of the international community, as it has contributed to the peace and stability of Asia.

I am confident that Americans of all walks of life will come to the defense of the Hubble and cause the Congress to restore the repair of the telescope to the NASA budget.

The first line of defense against any terrorist attack will be our first responders.

Through our first five games, we have seen four or five possible All-Americans. Our defense has been playing OK, but we need to tighten up some things so we can combat the other team's pitching.

The US government is committed to working together with the government of Japan to address these concerns.