To some extent, they are simply defending their own role in public policy debates.

Swift declined to discuss details of the program but defended its role in written responses to questions.

But the companies defended their role, saying they had helped fulfill a need for security at a critical moment.

And if the president proceeds unilaterally, Congress should take further steps to defend its role in foreign policy.

At the same time, he defended the company's role.

The army has defended its pervasive role on the ground of national security.

She has strongly defended the President's role as the commander in chief of the military.

But Fehr defended the union's role in protecting the interests of the players.

He also defended his role in the Surette matter.

He defended his continued role: "It's not a matter of just moving a building here or there.