Chuck Hagel Quotes

No criticism should be allowed to obscure the truth either at home or abroad that today America is the strongest nation militarily, economically, ideologically in the world.

I've spent my entire adult life with the United States as a superpower and one that had no compunction about spending what it took to sustain that position. And it didn't have to look over its shoulder because our economy was so strong.

No other country in the world does what we do. On every issue, the world turns to us, not simply because of the size of our economy or our military might - but because of the ideals we stand for, and the burdens we bear to advance them.

America is the most creative country and the most powerful government in the world.

America stood at the summit of power, emerging from the Cold War as an economic, cultural and military force without equal.

There is no doubt that America remains the premier political, economic, military power in the world, and I both expect and count on it remaining so, because I think that's certainly in our best interest but also the best interests of the world.

The definition of superpower cannot mean only military might anymore.

America must always be the world's paramount military power

Anyone who tells you that America is in decline or that our influence has waned doesn’t know what they’re talking about.

Americans like to think of their country as the most powerful in the world, and so it has been for three-quarters of a century. But being the most powerful is a far cry from being omnipotent.

Let me tell you what I literally told every world leader I've met with, and I've met them all: It's never, never, never been a good bet to bet against America. We have the finest fighting force in the world.

We cannot continue to have an excellence gap with the rest of the world and intend to remain the [economic superpower] and [military superpower] of the planet. That's just not going to happen. We're in a position where unless we take action, we'll end up being the [France] of the 21st century: a lot of talk, but not a lot of strength behind it in terms of economic capability.

American power worldwide is at its historic zenith.

Look at the world. There is no pure competitor to the United States of America.

The United States is the leader of the free world.

We have the largest economy and the strongest military in the world. Our core values of freedom and opportunity are ascendant around the globe.

But the - look, I think that this - the United States of America is still the most powerful economy in the world. It is an incredible engine for creativity and innovation. And it has the most - smartest, most effective workforce in the world. So we have a lot going for us, in spite of the fractiousness of our politics.

Mere population size has been no indicator of economic or military clout.

Modern power depends on money and guns. And we have the most of both.

A superpower does not have to be the bully on the block.

We must never allow America to become the second strongest nation I the world.

There is no substitute - none - for American power.

U.S. power flows from our unmatched military might, yes. But in a deeper way, it's a product of the dominance of the U.S. economy.

With growing economic prowess comes, of course, military power.

The United States is not just another country. It has more capacity and potential to influence the world than any other country - and no other country has the resources and mindset to lead a world that is not on autopilot.