Hagel Endures Republican Criticism as Levin Sees Approval
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Chuck Hagel fought his way through a daylong onslaught of criticism from Republicans in his confirmation hearing yesterday, widening a partisan rift over President Barack Obama’s choice for defense secretary.
Hagel, a former Republican senator and twice-wounded Vietnam War veteran, struggled at times during seven hours of questioning to explain past votes and statements. Republicans said his record showed reluctance to impose sanctions on Iran and to label militant groups as terrorists as well as a risky inclination to eliminate all nuclear weapons.