Obama likely to nominate Hagel as next defense secretary

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Reports now the President Obama will soon announce his pick for America's next Defense Secretary.

Multiple sources telling Fox News that the president will likely nominate former Republican senator chuck -- gold to replace Leon Panetta.

An announcement could come as early as Monday.

James Rosen has that story from Washington.

Jamie good evening to democratic sources confirmed to Fox -- -- Ed Henry late yesterday the President Obama has indeed settled on Chuck Hagel to lead the Pentagon.

The apparent pick comes despite many indications that the GOP maverick would face a rocky confirmation hearing.

The former two term senator from Nebraska has a history of blunt statements including a reference to -- the Jewish lobby as an intimidating force on Capitol Hill.

That would likely draw fresh scrutiny.

What's more hagel has at times resisted the imposition of sanctions against Iran for its renegade nuclear program.

And has balked at efforts to designate Hezbollah a terrorist group.

I do have serious concerns about his positions that he stated on Israel's some of the statements he's made in the past.

As well as his positions on Iran.

Supporters say -- Eagles infantry service in Vietnam where he was awarded two purple hearts among other decorations makes him superbly qualified to be Defense Secretary.

-- a bipartisan group of foreign policy elders wrote to President Obama to throw their support behind people.

-- also seems to enjoy the backing of the one individual whose opinion at this juncture.

Matters most.

News they.

Patriot -- -- somebody who's done exporter workbook in the United States senate somebody who served this country -- valor in Vietnam.

And there's somebody who's currently serving on -- -- -- this advisory board during an outstanding job.

For the record the White House was saying that no decision had yet been made on the top pentagon -- -- James thank you so much what --

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Obama likely to nominate Hagel as next defense secretary

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