This is the point that the chances of any kind of hostilities will increase. As a result, Penetta thinks that Congress should spare the Department of Defense any kind of severe budgetary cuts. Evidence of this can be seen with him saying, "The Defense Department is already shouldering its share of the deficit-reduction burden, including $350 billion in cuts over the next decade mandated by the Budget Control Act. Those cuts are tough but manageable and do not pose any insurmountable national-security risks. But any additional reductions in the Defense Department's budget would serious damage to our ability to be able to make the kind of changes in our defense structure that are responsible and that do protect this country for the future." (Scully) This is significant, because it is showing how Leon Penetta is using similar kinds of tactics as Machiavelli. Where, he is advocating that America must be able to maintain a strong military in order to sustain its global presence. Otherwise, he...

This is accomplished through telling Congress that if they continue to reduce their budget. The odd increase, that the U.S. will have more conflicts in the future. This is because many of America's enemies will see an opportunity to advance their own interests. If this were to happen the chances improve that there will be increased hostilities in the future. Therefore, Penetta is urging Congress not make any further cuts though utilizing one of Machiavelli's tactics. This is the point that they will take a careful look at the Pentagon's budget and the long-term impact it is having. (Scully)
Bibliography

Machiavelli, Niccolo. The Prince. New York: Forgotten Books, 1997. Print.

Scully, Megan. "Penetta Urges Lawmakers." Gov Exec, 2011. Web. 16 Nov. 2011.