However, he is the highest ranking military officer, and therefore exerts considerable authority in military matters. Though military officers are technically politically neutral, no general is really non-political. In truth he is involved in many aspects of doctrine, procurement, and deployment, and these are all very political matters. The CINC is concerned with seeing through the effective implementation of US military operations in the region. Other allies are the President, Secretary of Defense, and pro-defense congresspeople, while those with dovish tendencies are potential adversaries.
Republicans are more likely to endorse defense spending.
For me the tools have been a combination of education and dedication.