Republicans Block Hagel Confirmation Vote
(Washington, DC) — Republicans are blocking the nomination of Chuck Hagel as Defense Secretary.
A procedural vote to move Hagel to a full confirmation vote failed as a 60-vote threshold was not met.
Republicans argued that more time is needed to deliberate the Hagel nomination. Republican Hagel is a former Nebraska senator and a decorated Vietnam War veteran. Republicans have challenged Hagel’s commitment to Israel’s security and question some of his past votes and statements on Iraq, Iran and nuclear policy. Democrats call Hagel eminently qualified to lead the Defense Department.
Arizona Republican John McCain called Hagel an honorable man but said he will oppose his confirmation.
McCain called Hagel ill-suited for the job.
South Carolina Republican Lindsey Graham said a full confirmation vote should be delayed until after the Senate’s Presidents’ Day recess next week.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid accused Republicans of playing political games.
Reid ripped Republicans for blocking the Hagel nomination.
Michigan Democrat Carl Levin, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called the GOP moves unprecedented.
Copyright Metro Networks 2013.
