Cain is known for his conservative politics, especially in economics. The media often calls him the "equalizer," balancing out the more-liberal spirited members of the McCain administration and the legacy of the Kerry-era. Cain is also more conservative in Cold War politics. On his visit to the Kremlin in 2009, he met Soviet deputy chairman Viktor Zubkov and foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. Cain assured the United States' intentions for peaceful coexistence, yet he stated that they will make all necessary steps if needed, to defend free democracy around the world.