Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates had a scathing review of Congress in his new book, Duty, but noted he enjoyed and respected a few, with Sens. John McCain (R., Ariz.) and Carl Levin (D., Mich.) of the Armed Services Committee making the cut.
"Senator McCain was always interesting to deal with in hearings," Gates noted with a smile, "but by the same token he was very important in my efforts to cut some of the wasteful government programs, and I found that he also would keep his word."