Hagel

Yesterday Senator Hagel's office released this statement:Hagel and Reed Announce Plans to Join Obama for Bipartisan CODEL to Iraq and Afghanistan Later This SummerJuly 13th, 2008 - WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Chuck Hagel (R-NE) today announced plans to join U.S. Senator Barack Obama in traveling to Iraq and Afghanistan later this summer to get a firsthand look at the secu

Today Senator Hagel delivered a speech to The Brookings Institution, an event described as"a discussion of U.S. foreign policy in the context of the 2008 presidential campaign. Senator Hagel examined the inventory of global challenges that the next president will inherit and the responsibilities of the presidential candidates to address these challenges."The speech was titled "Memo to the Candidat

In a far reaching interview with the German publication, Der Spiegel, the maverick Republican senator from Iowa made clear his disagreements with the Bush administration and his apparent differences with his friend, John McCain. Hagel opposed the war in Iraq and for years has been complaining about Bush Middle Eastern policies. He said the invasion [...]

As I mentioned earlier today over at LRC, an Obama-Hagel ticket is making more and more sense. After taking a look at the electoral college calculator, the Democrats win if they (1) win Iowa, (2) win Colorado, and (3) win Omaha's Congressional District (Obama could also win w/ NM and NV if they lose CO). Based on that, Hagel will deliver at least one of Nebraska's 5 electoral votes (maybe even tak

The following statement was released today by Senator Hagel's office:Senate Passes Webb-Hagel GI BillMay 22nd, 2008 - The United States Senate today passed, by an overwhelming margin of 75-22, the FY08 Emergency Supplemental bill that included the “Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act” sponsored by Senators Chuck Hagel (R-NE) and Jim Webb (D-VA). The legislation modernizes educationa

The Republican Senator from Nebraska was a political thorn in McCain's side on Tuesday night, repeatedly lavishing praise on the presumptive Democratic candidate and levying major foreign policy criticisms at the GOP nominee and the Republican Party as a whole...Hagel even urged the Arizona Republican to elevate his campaign discourse to a higher, more honest level. read more | digg story

I attended a talk/book signing by Senator Chuck Hagel today at the New America Foundation today, and as usual, found Hagel to be thoughtful and engaging. Yes he is a Republican and yes, he did originally vote for the authorization for the Iraq invasion, but he is now trying to figure out the best way for the U.S. to both leave Iraq and improve its standing in the world. He admits that Congress has abdicated its responsibilities over the past 5 or 6 years, and he believes one of the biggest consequences of the actions of both Congress and the Administration is that Americans do not trust their government anymore. When asked his advice for the next President, he first said that if the new President does not start unwinding our involvement in Iraq, then he or she will not be able to govern

Robert Novak has a brief discussion of Senator Hagel in his piece from yesterday. Friends of Sen. Chuck Hagel, the Senate's sharpest critic of President Bush's Iraq policy, say there is no chance he will endorse a Democrat for president this year.That does not mean, however, that Hagel necessarily will back the Republican candidate, his friend John McCain. That could depend on whether McCain devises an Iraq exit strategy. Hagel and McCain, who occupy offices in the same second floor corridor of the Russell Senate Office Building, have been spotted conferring on two recent occasions.A footnote: Although the conservative Hagel is an unlikely running mate for either Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton, he conceivably could end up as secretary of defense for either Democrat.

Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) said last night that, among the 3 remaining candidates, he thought Barack Obama had the best chance of bringing the country together. He said that he believed that Barack Obama, for generational reasons, could best bring the country together.read more | digg story

On CNN's "Late Edition" today Wolf Blitzer interviewed outspoken critic of the Iraq war, Republican Sen. Chuck Hagel of Nebraska. Blitzer asked Hagel about critics of the war who say that the president is ignoring reality and living in a dream world. Hegel replied, “Well, I think this is another episode of Alice in Wonderland..."read more | digg story

Sen. Chuck Hagel, R - Neb., said this morning he is not ready to endorse Sen. John McCain, R - Ariz., for president because of fundamental disagreements in their beliefs. It seems McCain is a little, oh, I don't know, too crazy? Or maybe too corrupt? Or just a lying hypocrite?read more | digg story

Chuck Hagel has announced today that he will not be seeking a third term in the Senate and that he will not be running for Presdient.Here is the text of Chuck Hagel's announcement today (the text from Sandhills PAC):Hagel Announces He Will Not Seek A Third Term In Senate OMAHA, NE – United States Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) announced this morning that he will not seek a third term in the United States Senate and does not intend to be a candidate for any office in 2008. Below is a text of Hagel’s remarks delivered at the Omaha Press Club: “I will not seek a third term in the United States Senate, nor do I intend to be a candidate for any office in 2008. It has been my greatest honor and privilege to serve my country and represent my fellow Nebraskans in the U.S. Senate. My family and I will be forever grateful for this opportunity and the trust placed in me by the people of Nebraska. It has enriched all of us. I have always tried to live up to the promise

The wait may soon be over. Here is the message from Chuck Hagel's PAC website:Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) will hold a press conference on Monday, September 10th. The press conference will be held at 10:00 a.m. at the Omaha Press Club. Hagel will announce a decision regarding his future.I and many others are hoping that Chuck Hagel will jump into the 2008 Presidential race on Monday, but we'll have to wait a few more days to find out.

Southwest Nebraska News reports that there is a new radio ad praising Senator Hagel ("Hagel, other Republicans Commended in Radio Ads").Major General (Ret.) John Batiste, former 1st Infantry Division commander in Iraq, life-long Republican, and advisor to VoteVets.org, is featured in a new radio ad campaign being launched today, that praises three Republicans for standing up for the troops.Here is the text of the ad being run in Nebraska:"I first want to thank the great state of Nebraska for standing behind our great military. When I was in uniform, my duty was to get the job done, without commenting on the policy makers in Washington. Now I'm a civilian, and pleased to thank Senator Chuck Hagel for his moral courage and standing up for our troops and military families. We're caught in the middle of a brutal civil war in Iraq, without a focused national strategy. Senator Hagel is well-informed, challenging those politicians who are breaking our great Army and Marine corps. Right now

KETV, an Omaha station, has Senator Hagel's reaction to the Alberto Gonzales Resignation.In a written statement, Sen. Chuck Hagel said, "Attorney General Gonzales has taken the responsible and appropriate action in resigning. His resignation is the best thing for the country, Justice Department and the president."

In February it was released that Senator Hagel would be writing a book (check out the original post here). Amazon.com has a page for the book, including a title: "America: The Next Chapter: Tough Questions and Straight Answers." Check it out.

David S. Broder's column in yesterday's Washington Post, "Bloomberg And Hagel For 2008?", is certainly worth a read.Chuck Hagel, the senator from Nebraska, describes himself as a "tidal" politician, one who believes that larger forces in society shape careers more than the ambitions of individuals. "The only mistakes I've made," he told me last week, "were when I tried to go against the tide."...Next month, Hagel will make a threshold decision -- whether to run for a third term in the Senate. He gave me no definitive answer, but my guess is that he will say that 12 years of battling the institutional lethargy of Capitol Hill will be enough. Certainly he is under no illusions about how much he can achieve as one of 100 lawmakers....The imperative the public will impose on the next president, Hagel says, "is to lead the country and restore the sense of national purpose." But the early start on campaigning for the GOP and Democratic nominations, and the prospect that the battles on one

David Broder apparently doesn’t believe Michael Bloomberg’s denial of plans to run for president, and realistically it is possible he could change his mind should he believe he has a chance to win after seeing the nominees of the major parties. Broder brings up once again the idea of Bloomberg running with Chuck Hagel as running mate. Should Bloomberg run I could see him picking Hagel to balance the ticket with someone with his experience, but I’m not sure why anyone would actually push for such a ticket. The two have such diverse views that calling for such a ticket is more an act in support of a third party for the sake of a third party as opposed to fill a specific need. This is also my objection to the Unity ‘08 measure. Should I be unhappy with the candidates from the two major parties and should Unity offer a better alternative I might consider voting for them. However I see no advantage at present in backing an organization which plans to choose candidate

Don Walton had a piece in Friday's Lincoln Journal Star covering Hagel's latest on the Iraq war. Check out the full article for more.“We’re going to demand we get whatever information we require,” the Republican senator said during a Lincoln interview. “We fully expect the leaders of our government will comply with their responsibility. We must have all the facts and details required to make intelligent decisions.”

The Concord Monitor ran a piece on Hagel this week. The nation's increasing frustration with the war has given Sen. Chuck Hagel - the loudest Republican critic of the war in the Senate - renewed hope in a possible presidential run. He told The New York Times recently that a few major fundraisers were urging him to run. He said: "There is no Republican presidential candidate with this point of view. There might be an opening for me on this." We checked in with state Sen. Bob Odell, a Lempster Republican who's been friends with Hagel for 30 years.... Odell said he thinks Hagel's position has increasing resonance. "I certainly think the public is open to a new voice, a new approach," he said.

Senator Hagel made the news last week by calling for a new way to keep our infrastructure healthy, and it came just before the Minneapolis bridge collapse.Hardblogger has a piece on the plan (you can see video of Senators Hagel and Dodd on Hardball here) and here is an excerpt:Earlier on Wednesday – a few hours before the 35W bridge in Minnesota collapsed -- Senators Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) and Chuck Hagel R-Neb.) introduced legislation to fix America’s road, bridges, water, and transit systems. According to the senators, the National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2007 would help revitalize America’s infrastructure....“We have the capacity to do it,” said Sen. Hagel. “We have the greatest economy, system, nation, people in the world. There is no challenge this country has ever failed at meeting.” (Rumors continue that Hagel may run for president as well).NPR has an interview with Chuck Hagel on the matter as well. You can listen to it here.

It was announced that Chuck Hagel will be speaking next month in California.Sen. Chuck Hagel, R-Nebraska, and Sen. Bob Graham, D-Florida, will be the final speakers at this year's Leon Panetta Lecture Series on Aug. 13.... This lecture can be viewed live on cable television in Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties, and north through the San Francisco Bay area, as well as east to the greater Sacramento area. C-SPAN is also invited to broadcast these lectures nationally.From The Herald

Here is the latest press release from Draft Hagel 08:FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEThe Winner of Monday Night’s Democratic Debate: Republican Senator Chuck Hagel Boston, MA – At the first CNN/YouTube Democratic Presidential Debate held Monday, July 24, Democratic contender Senator Joseph Biden (D-DE) was asked by a questioner: “If you had to pick any Republican member of Congress or Republican governor to be your running mate, who would it be? Without hesitation, Mr. Biden said: Chuck Hagel. When asked the same question, Democratic contender John Edwards (D-NC) said Chuck Hagel as well. Senator Chuck Hagel’s name continues to be batted around Washington political circles as a possible Republican, Independent, and now Democratic candidate for the ’08 election. In a political environment immersed in hyper-partisanship and ideological polarization, one where political gamesmanship has become the watchword of the day in Washington, Senator Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) has managed

Mayor Bloomberg at the C40 Large Cities Climate Summit luncheon in New York May 15, 2007. Photo by REUTERS/Richard Drew/PoolCould New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) be forming an independent ticket for the 2008 election? Michael Bloomberg has not ruled out a possible run as an independent in 2008 and has a reported $1 billion dollars of his own money set aside to spend on a campaign. The main obstacle for most independent candidates has been the ability to raise funds. Michael Bloomberg, who owns 72% of Bloomberg L.P., is the worlds largest financial and data company in the world. Bloomberg was ranked 44th on the top 400 Richest Americans by Forbes Magazine in 2006 and is one of the richest people in the world. Bloomberg has denied that he is planning to run for president in 2008 but personal friends of his have said that he has set aside $1 billion dollars of his own money for a third party run. Chuck Hagel appeared on "Face the Natio

This message brought to you by the Draft Hagel 08 Movement:What is the purpose of a draft movement?To create a buzz, a groundswell of support, to influence a decision. We do not care which party the candidate desires to represent, only that he/she is the right person for the job. This is what we need to do. We cannot wait for a decision, and then jump into action. We need to be in action to influence a decision.At this point in time, Senator Hagel is focused on his job as a US Senator, as he should be. While he thinks about a decision to run, it is the job of Draft Hagel 08 movement supporters to show him that the energy is out there to ensure that a decision to enter the Presidential race has the potential to be successful.Looking at the direction and future of our country, it is hard to imagine that doing so could ever be considered a waste. Start a local group in your area. Have some type of political experience, or want to gain some? Contact us to be a regional or state coo

Chuck Hagel's Senate office released this statement yesterday:Hagel Calls for Resignation of Attorney General GonzalesMay 16th, 2007 - Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) today released the following statement calling for the resignation of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Former Deputy Attorney General James Comey testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday that, as White House Counsel, Gonzales attempted to undermine Comey’s authority as the acting Attorney General and persuade Attorney General John Ashcroft to re-authorize a domestic surveillance program from his hospital bed.“The American people deserve an Attorney General, the chief law enforcement officer of our country, whose honesty and capability are beyond question. Attorney General Gonzales can no longer meet this standard. He has failed this country. He has lost the moral authority to lead. Comey’s testimony yesterday brings to light the latest episode in a series of questionable action

Here's a press release issued Tuesday from the Senator's office:Lieberman, Hagel Call for Increase in Skilled Workers to Boost U.S. EconomySenators introduce the Skilled Worker Immigration and Fairness Act of 2007May 15th, 2007 - Washington, D.C. - Senators Joe Lieberman (ID-CT) and Chuck Hagel (R-NE) today introduced the Skilled Worker Immigration and Fairness Act of 2007 to ensure that America’s innovative industries can hire the workers they need to fuel US economic growth, and to better protect American workers. The bill is also co-sponsored by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and George Voinovich (R-OH).The bill would increase the annual allotment of H-1B visas, which provide American employers with access to highly educated foreign professionals in “specialty occupations” (those requiring at least a U.S. bachelor's degree or equivalent education and work experience). Despite dramatic changes to the US economy in the past 17 years, the H-1B cap remains at its 1990 limit of

Chuck Hagel has been given an award by the Boy Scouts of America. Here's the news from Southwest Nebraska News:U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) has received the Patriot “Good Scout” Award for 2007 from the Boys Scouts of America. The award is presented each year to one senator or congressman who displays patriotism and an allegiance to the scouting spirit.“It is an honor to receive this award from an organization that has helped shape the character and patriotism of generations of young men. The lessons I learned in scouting have served me well throughout my life. The dedication of the Boy Scouts to patriotism and hard work honors the best of America,” Hagel said.Hagel was both a Cub Scout and a Boy Scout growing up in Nebraska. Hagel was also the 2001 recipient of the Patriot “Good Scout” Award.

Mayor Mike Bloomberg (R-NYC) says he doesn't intend to run for President.Last week, Mayor Bloomberg re-launched his campaign website, mikebloomberg.com, for the public to learn more about the positions Mayor Bloomberg has taken. The site features links to articles about the mayor about rumors of an Independent bid in 2008.Last week, Bloomberg unveiled a national energy plan in Houston, Texas, and traveled to Oklahoma to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. Elizabeth Benjamin of the NY Daily News points out that TX and OK have the strongest ballot restrictions for independent candidates.Last week, the billionaire Mayor was spotted having dinner with anti-war Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE), who stopped short of announcing a bid for the GOP-nomination earlier this year. Like Bloomberg, Hagel's name is often talked about for an Independent Candidacy. Yesterday, Hagel acknowledged the dinner on Face The Nation, and said Bloomberg should consider running. Hagel said "It

John McCain gets all the press as a "maverick," but how has he set his own course in the presidential primaries? His views are in lockstep with the prevailing Republican ethos. But the true mavericks in the GOP seem to be Rudy Giuliani and Chuck Hagel.Giuliani bucked the prevailing political wisdom and decided to actually tell voters what he believes rather than equivocate. It will be interesting to see how voters react to such straight talk. This writer has always held that voters will respect a politician who tells the truth and doesn't try to be all things to all voters. The Giuliani campaign will be an interesting test of this theory.Nebraskan Senator Chuck Hagel took his independence a bit further, claiming that the Republican Party has been "hijacked by a group of single-minded almost isolationists, insulationists, power-projectors." Hagel is pondering a run as an independent candidate with none other than Giuliani's successor, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg as a possible run

Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) added to the speculation that he may run for President in 2008 as a conservative anti-war Independent;"I am not happy with the Republican Party today, It's been hijacked by a groupof single-minded almost isolationists, insulationists, power-projectors." Hagel also praised Mayor Bloomberg, who is having his name thrown around as a potential Independent candidate for President.Hagel/Bloomberg '08?

Here is a press release issued last week from the Senate office of Chuck Hagel:Hagel Introduces Veterans and Survivors Employment and Training ActMay 3rd, 2007 - WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Chuck Hagel (R-NE) and Jack Reed (D-RI) today introduced the “Veterans and Survivors Employment and Training Act of 2007.” This legislation would make school more affordable to veterans, survivors, and dependents pursuing an education in high tech fields. The bill would expand the education programs that are eligible for accelerated payments under the Montgomery GI Bill, and provide the benefit to recipients of the Survivors’ and Dependents Educational Assistance Program (SDEAP).“America’s service men and women make tremendous sacrifices in service to our country. As policymakers, we have an obligation to ensure they have the resources they need to pursue their education. This legislation will make it easier for veterans, and the families of veterans killed or permanently disabled in

QuestionIf Senator Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) runs as a conservative anti-war Independent, who does it hurt, the Republicans or the Democrats?Wouldn't be interesting to see a three-way race that ends with no electoral majority that throws the election to the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives who elected Hillary Clinton President.And you thought 2000 was bad?

The second of two press releases today from the Senate office of Chuck Hagel:Hagel Statement on Vote in Favor of War Supplemental Spending BillApril 26th, 2007 - Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) released the following statement today regarding his vote in favor of the Iraq War Supplemental spending bill:“I do not believe the current policy we have in Iraq is worthy of the sacrifices our troops are making and I will not continue to support it. Given a choice between the two options of voting for this bill or supporting the current course we are on in Iraq, I chose to vote for this bill. We need a change of policy.“The President will veto this legislation and we will find ourselves at a crossroads. The Administration and Congress must find a responsible common ground on a new Iraq policy that funds our troops, strips the unnecessary spending out of this bill, addresses our national interests in Iraq and the Middle East, and presses the Iraqi government to find a pol

Here is the first of two press releases from Chuck Hagel's Senate office today:Hagel Introduces Legislation to Deal with Illegal Immigrants Living in the U.S.April 26th, 2007 - Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) today introduced “The Immigrant Accountability Act of 2007.” The legislation would create a merit-based point system to deal with those living in the country illegally. Those who receive enough points would be put on a pathway to earn citizenship after 13 years. Under Hagel’s bill, no person here illegally would be able to jump in line ahead of someone who has applied for citizenship legally.Hagel’s legislation is a compromise intended to be incorporated into the comprehensive immigration reform legislation the Senate will consider in May. The legislation builds on previous immigration reform legislation introduced by Hagel in the last two Congresses.“It is not in our interest to have 12 million people living here illegally. We must create a system in

From Draft Hagel '08:We have a mission to accomplish by Memorial Day if we want to see Chuck Hagel's views presented to the American people in the 2008 Presidential election!We are asking that, by May 28, you try and find 25 new supporters to sign the online petition! How? Talk to people you know, talk to people they know, let them know that we need their help in making sure that America does not have to suffer through the 2008 election, that signing the online petition shows Senator Hagel that we need his views expressed through the Presidential election! If you and a friend were to stand on a busy corner over a weekend, that's all it would take to accomplish the 25!If you hear someone say, "It's too early to make that decision," tell them you're not asking them who they will support in 2008, but rather that you would like their help in making sure a true American has the right to be one of their choices!Are you a doctor, nurse, teacher, lawyer, scientist, housewife, househu

Nebraska Attorney General Joe Bruning is running in the Republican primary for US Senate against Chuck HagelThis poll shows him winning.Bruning leads Hagel 47%-38%.Perhaps Democrats should hurry a candidate, Scott Kleeb or Mike Fahey, to win over the 38% and defeat Bruning.Or maybe Hagel will pull a Lieberman and go independent.Or maybe he won't run at all.Nevertheless, Republicans are going to love this news. It's not surprising. Nebraska Republicans are still very supportive of the President and the Iraq war.

Senator Hagel wrote an op-ed that is in today's Washington Post. This piece is the result of his recent trip to Iraq.In Iraq, All Terribly Familiar By Chuck Hagel Sunday, April 22, 2007; Page B01 Last weekend, along with Rep. Joe Sestak (D-Pa.), I completed my fifth trip to Iraq, and I am frustrated and worried. We are still risking the lives of our troops without giving them a realistic policy worthy of their sacrifices. To me, as a Vietnam veteran, that feels terribly familiar.If success were simply a matter of the determination and ability of U.S. troops and civil servants, we would have already created a secure and stable Iraq. But unfortunately, the reality is that after more than four years, America remains the country's occupying power. Iraq's future will be determined by Iraqis, who, I hope, will reach a political accommodation -- but America is still making the major decisions and taking the lead militarily in most critical areas of the country. We can continue to help bu

There is a piece in the SeacoastOnline that is well worth a read. It's quite entertaining, really. Here is an excerpt:[T]he point is this: Now in particular, after the 16 years that will have preceded our next president, we’re going to need an individual we can respect and admire and take pride in. Someone who can inspire us and help define us as a nation. Or in this case, redefine us.When even the national media was busy playing cheerleader during our march into war in Iraq, Hagel had the insight to recognize the potential for disaster and the cajones to voice his concerns in public. He recently returned from his fifth visit to the war-torn country, reiterating the importance “that the Iraqi people now carry forward the assistance that the American government has given.”“The future of Iraq will be determined by the Iraqi people,” he said.The refreshing candor Hagel has brought to Washington would be welcomed in the presidential campaign, and especially in New Hampshire. W

Much like the Kansas GOP, the Nebraska GOP is about to split in two.Nebraska Attorney General Joe Bruning, aged 38, is running against Chuck Hagel in the Republican primary for the US Senate.No Democrat has announced yet, and it isn't even certain that Hagel will run again in 2008.If Hagel decides not to run, then Bruning will become the obvious nominee...and a strong one at that, but if Hagel does run again, it will divide the Nebraska GOP and give the Democrats a chance. It isn't uncommon for Democrats to win statewide in Nebraska. Ben Nelson, a Democrat, was just reelected to the US Senate last year with 64% of the vote.Possible Democratic nominees include Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey and former Third District Congressional Candidate Scott Kleeb, who won 45% in a distrct that gave President Bush 73%.

Senator Hagel will be traveling to Iraq for the fifth time. The full details are in this press release that his Senate office issued today.Hagel, Sestak to Travel to IraqApril 12th, 2007 - WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) and Congressman Joe Sestak (D-PA) will travel to Iraq this week to examine security, political and economic conditions during a 2-day tour of the country. Senator Hagel and Congressman Sestak will leave on Thursday, April 12th and return on Monday, April 16th. Hagel, a Vietnam War veteran, serves on the Senate Foreign Relations and Intelligence Committees. Sestak, a retired U.S. Navy Vice Admiral, serves on the House Armed Services Committee.“This trip will allow us an opportunity to assess our progress in Iraq and the Middle East and meet with the key leaders of this region. I also look forward to meeting with Nebraska troops serving in Iraq,” Hagel said.“I appreciate the opportunity to talk with our commanders and the troops that are forward

Here's a press release from Chuck Hagel's Senate office that was released yesterday:Hagel Statement on Secretary Gates’ Announcement Extending Army Deployments from 12 to 15 MonthsApril 11th, 2007 - WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) released the following statement today regarding Defense Secretary Robert Gates’ announcement that U.S. Army deployments will be extended from 12 to 15 months:“Secretary Gates is right to bring greater predictability and clarity regarding the deployment of our military overseas rather than allowing creeping deployment extensions. However, the Secretary’s announcement extending the deployments of active duty Army units is a stark admission that the Administration’s policies in Iraq are doing permanent damage to our military and a clear acknowledgment that the U.S. military is being forced to ignore its own deployment standards. Maintaining this tempo of operations will have drastic and lasting consequences for our nation’s mili

Hagel: Writing, Running, or BothExcerpt:"In other book news, Nebraska senator and Iraq war foe Chuck Hagel doesn't know whether he's running for president yet, but the Republican's current literary project certainly points in that direction. We've learned that Hagel is hard at work on America: The Next Chapter, a collection of practical-and reportedly nonpartisan-policy prescriptions on issues as diverse as healthcare and the Middle East."http://www.usnews.com/usnews/politics/whispers/articles/070408/16whisplead.htmAlex

Hagel on the issues (from his new website):COMBATING METHAMPHETAMINESenator Hagel co-sponsored the Combat Meth Act which the President signed into law. This legislation authorizes increased funds for local law enforcement in the fight to eliminate meth. Senator Hagel has held Congressional hearings on the impact of meth on American communities and the danger of meth trafficking.

Part 9 in the series on Hagel's issue positions. From his website:HEALTH CARESenator Hagel formed a Health Care Commission which has brought together key health care professionals and leaders from Nebraska and the nation's health care fields. The purpose of the Commission is to review the current state of health care and present recommendations for a sustainable, accessible, affordable and quality health care system for the 21st century.

Today I pick up where we left of a week ago on Chuck Hagel's positions on a variety of issues. The information comes from his website.PRO-LIFE AND CONSERVATIVE JUDGESSenator Hagel has been a consistent supporter of life since he came to the Senate and has supported everyone of President Bush's judicial nominees, including Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts and Associate Justice Samuel Alito.

There is a good editorial in favor of a Hagel Presidency at First Call. The piece, "Diamonds Don't Always Lie at the Surface: For a Chuck Hagel Presidency," is by Al Moran. Here are some excerpts:Hagel’s conservative credentials are extremely sound: he has consistently voted against abortion, downplayed the need for even more money to be put into public education programs without organizing the tremendous amount that’s already there, supported reforming Social Security so the nest egg doesn’t dry up in the very-near future, etc....Hagel has responded with the statement that he swore an oath of office to the Constitution, and not one to a party or particular ideology. I greatly admire and respect this; Hagel seems to be a voice of reason in a conservative base that is increasingly straying from its intellectual and traditional roots. He simply wants to question an administration that has erred. We have been involved in Iraq for quite some time now. The administration’s propos

Here's a press release from Chuck Hagel's Senate website:Hagel-Webb Introduce Amendment to Protect Readiness of U.S. Troops and Limit DeploymentsMarch 27th, 2007 - WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Chuck Hagel (R-NE) and Jim Webb (D-VA) introduced a bipartisan amendment today to the Iraq War supplemental spending bill. The amendment:• ensures that units and individuals in the Armed Forces be certified as “fully mission capable” 15 days prior to deployment;• limits the length of overseas deployments of the Army, Marine Corps, and National Guard;• establishes a minimum time between deployments for the Army, Marine Corps and National Guard;• provides additional appropriations totaling approximately $3.1 billion to reset Army National Guard and Reserve equipment and to address funding shortfalls for Army National Guard training, operations and maintenance; and to fund the acquisition of additional Mine Resistant Ambush Protection vehicle

Hagel to Bush: "This is not a monarchy!"http://www.huffingtonpost.com/huff-wires/20070325/us-iraqEven if you weren't aware of it, there has been a groundswell of impeachment support and activities in the private sector for some time now. Politicians, for the most part, have studiously ignored this development and, until very recently, so has the media.Now--FINALLY--GOP Senator Chuck Hagel of Nebraska seems to be preparing to put on the gloves for the fight to impeach our out-of-control president. Our nation's very foundation of democracy is crumbling and we desperately need fair, even-handed leadership to rebuilt it. As such, there is no other option--we MUST keep the pressure on and support this move. Do a search yourself and see just how much public support this movement has already, or feel free to check out the following links I provide for those too busy to do the search themselves. Impeach Centralhttp://elandslide.org/elandslide/petition.cfm?campaign=impeachVote To Impeachhttp

Senator Hagel has been a key player in the immigration debate for the last few years. Once again, the information comes from his website.IMMIGRATIONSenator Hagel co-authored legislation in the Senate which would add 14,000 new border patrol agents; quadruple border fencing; require aliens show a biometric, machine-readable and tamper-resistant identification card for work authorization; increase fines for hiring illegal workers; and deal with the 12 million illegal immigrants living in this country.

Part six in this week's series on Chuck Hagel on the issues. The information comes from his new website.SMALLER GOVERNMENT AND DECREASED SPENDINGSenator Hagel has stood up to increased spending and bigger government by voting against large budget busting bills like the Medicare Reform Bill and No Child Left Behind.

Here's another press release from this week:Hagel Introduces Resolution Commemorating 25th Anniversary of Vietnam MemorialMarch 22nd, 2007 - WASHINGTON, D.C. – United States Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) introduced a resolution today commemorating March 26th as the 25th anniversary of the construction and dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. The bill has 53 cosponsors. Hagel, a twice-wounded Vietnam veteran, and former Deputy Administrator of the Veterans Administration, spoke at the 1982 groundbreaking for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. On March 26th, Hagel will speak at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s ceremony commemorating the 25th anniversary of the groundbreaking for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.“The creation of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial marked the beginning of a healing process for a nation, and veterans, divided by the war. Now, every year millions of Americans come to this monument to pay their respects to those who made the ultimate sac

Chuck Hagel's Senate Office released this press release this week:Hagel Reintroduces Bill to Aid Military FamiliesMarch 20th, 2007 - WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) joined Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) today in reintroducing the “Military Retiree Survivor Benefit Equity Act.” This legislation would allow qualifying surviving spouses of military service members to receive survivor annuities—without being offset—from both the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Department of Defense.“America owes a great debt of gratitude to our professional service members. It is important to remember that years of devoted service also affects not only service members, but their families. This legislation will ensure that surviving military spouses are guaranteed access to the benefits that were earned and purchased by the service of their loved one,” Hagel said.Currently, when a retired service member passes away from a service-related disability, the surviving spouse

Today's topic is education. The information comes from his new website.EDUCATIONSenator Hagel has led the effort in the Senate to reduce the 30-year-old unfunded education mandate on our local schools by increasing funds for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Senator Hagel has worked to increase funding to support Nebraska's community colleges. Senator Hagel voted against No Child Left Behind because it expands the role of the federal government in education and undermines local and state control of education.

Once again, the information comes from his new webite. AGRICULTURESenator Hagel has worked to pass $4 billion in drought disaster assistance through a responsible and accountable legislative process in the Senate this year. In July, Senator Hagel toured drought-stricken counties around Nebraska. Senator Hagel worked with the Japanese government to re-open the multi-billion dollar Japanese market to U.S. beef.

Here is part three in the series. The information comes from his new website.TAXES Senator Hagel supported the President's tax cut initiatives in 2001 and 2003 and supports making them permanent. Senator Hagel has co-sponsored legislation for 10 years that would eliminate the estate tax.

Part two of my series on Chuck Hagel on the issues. The information comes from his new website.ENERGY Senator Hagel has supported environmentally responsible energy exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Senator Hagel has introduced legislation in the Senate to require that all gasoline contain 10% ethanol by 2010, and supports producing 25% of America's energy from renewable resources by 2025. Senator Hagel has supported the increased use of nuclear power, off-shore drilling, and a wider and deeper portfolio of energy resources.

This week begins a series on Chuck Hagel on the issues. The information comes from his new website.MILITARY Senator Hagel led the fight to increase the size of the U.S. Army and Marines. Senator Hagel sponsored legislation to increase the military death benefit and eliminate the fee charged to members of the American military to sign up for the Montgomery G.I. Bill.

Check out a blog post, "President Chuck Hagel?" by Joe Leonardi. He makes some very good points and leads off with two great quotes. Thanks to mia for sharing it.“Hagel is criticized for what many see as grandstanding on the Iraq war, but his critique of the problems we face there has been more right than wrong since our forces landed there.” “He may be right or wrong on Iraq, but no one can question his base conservatism or his devotion to a strong United States.” American Conservative Union Chairman David A. Keene, quote from the Washington Times “Beware those who cry for war the loudest, for they are those who have never known the horrors of combat.” Marine Warrant Officer I served with.

Here's a nice piece from Daniel Klimek that was in The Depaulia a while back.Hagel has what it takes: Integrity by Daniel KlimekStaff Writer After Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice made her appearance before a bipartisan Senate committee last week, a day after George Bush presented his idiotic plan for war escalation in a nationally televised address, she ended up experiencing a lot of resistance in her attempts to purvey the president's newest foreign policy wishes. The ubiquitous resistance against a plan that would send over 20,000 more American lives to the contemporary, war-infected tragedy that is Iraq was fervently dismantled, with the greatest opposition produced by no one other than fellow Republican Chuck Hagel. An independent-thinking Maverick Senator from Nebraska, Hagel is one of those rare creatures in the American political world: an individualist who refuses to be corrupted by the blindness of partisanship in order to influence decision-making eff

Here's an piece worth sharing (from Huntington News in WV). Editorial: Hagel Will Sell Well In the Heartland In every presidential primary, Republican or Democrat, each party's dominant wing (right for Republicans, left for Democrats) are courted heavily. Take the Republicans. Even if the vast majority of Republican voters are not strongly conservative in the Republican primaries, those conservatives are highly prized because they always vote and are passionate enough to get others to vote. So every Republican who wants to have a chance of victory is talking conservatives' language on social issues and foreign policy in anticipation of next year's primary contests. Even former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is trying to convince wary conservatives that his liberal advocacy on issues ranging from abortion to gun control to gay rights is behind him now. What a relief for supporters of U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) that their man d

Here's an article that's worth taking a look at: Bill Wineke: Hagel would make the best president. Here's an excerpt:I've pretty much come to the conclusion that Hagel is the best person to run this country for the next few years....Hagel is one of the most conservative members of the Senate and I disagree with him on virtually every issue. I even disagree with him on the war in Iraq. I don't think we can just walk away from the mess we created.So why would I suggest Hagel is the best person to run our country?Because this country has a lot of big problems to solve and it is doing precious little to solve any of them.I'm not at all sure it makes any difference whether our leaders follow liberal policies to solve those problems or follow conservative policies. There are different paths to solving problems. But for the past 16 years, at least, we haven't followed any path; we've just spent all our time fighting.Hagel, I think, has the opportunity to pull the country to

Chuck Hagel speaks at his news conference in Omaha, Nebraska on March 12, 2007. Talking about his political future. Photo by: REUTERSYesterday Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) postponed his announcement on whether or not he would be running for president in 2008 or not. Hagel said at this point in time he had more of a responsibility to end the war in Iraq "In making this announcement, I believe there will still be political options open to me at a later date, I cannot control that, and I do not worry about it," Hagel said.He will have to make a decision on whether or not to run for a third term in the U.S. Senate, retire from the Senate, or if he is going to run for president. He believes that he still has time to be able to run for president later and he will continue to raise money for his Senate campaign committee and his political action committee. Chuck Hagel did not rule out a possible run as an Independent yesterday either, saying, “We are experiencing a political reorientation

Chuck Hagel announced Monday that he has decided to postpone his decision about whether or not to launch a potential presidential bid in 2008. A few minutes ago, I came across Hagel 08, which addresses itself as the “Chuck Hagel Official Website.” The website is paid for by the Hagel For Senate Committee, yet there is no indication that this is a Senate reelection website. On the contrary, the Issues page and other references to his possible presidential aspirations seem to reveal the website of one who is preparing to sell himself to the American people, not his current constituents. Given his tenure and popularity as senator from Nebraska, surely a reelection website wouldn’t go to such lengths to provide voters with information about who Chuck Hagel is; Nebraskan’s know the man.I think Chuck Hagel is definitely running for president in 2008. It provides an interesting base for discussion. What kind of a chance does Chuck Hagel have? Conventional wisdom says “not much.” T

Senator Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) was expected to announce if he would run for the Presidency today...he's announced he's waiting a little while longer.Hagel would be the only major anti-war Republican in the running (sans a run by Congressman Ron Paul of Texas.)Meanwhile, Hagel is raising money for a reelection campaign for the Senate. Not that he'd need it. He won 85% of the vote last night and unless he faces a pro-war Republican in the primary (which probably would've happened already,) he's pretty much a shoo-in.

If you were getting tired of seeing presidential candidates find repeated opportunities to 'announce' their 'decision' to run for president, Chuck Hagel takes the genre to a new, previously unknown level - by announcing his indecision. He told everyone five days ago that he would be holding a press conference to make an announcement about his political future. What he actually did was say at that press conference that there would be an announcement about his political future later in the year. I hope he doesn't make that announcement in the form of a press conference, because I'm not sure how many journalists would be inclined to turn up. You surely don't fall for that trick twice.If it is considered an impressive campaign skill to make newsworthy the absence of news, then Hagel maybe worth watching after all.

Senator Hagel DID NOT announce that he's running for President today. He said that he wants to focus on the important issues that confront the nation today without being distracted by a campaign.However, he did keep open the option of running for President by entering the race later in the year.Here is the text of his statement:"America stands at an historic crossroads in its history. It is against this backdrop that I find myself at my own crossroads on my political future. Burdened by two wars, faced with dangerous new threats and global uncertainty, beset by serious long-term domestic problems and divided by raw political partisanship—America now reaches for a national consensus of purpose. America’s response to the challenges and opportunities that confront us today will define our future. Finding solutions to these challenges and capitalizing on these opportunities will not wait until the next election. I have worked hard over the last ten years on foreig

Here's an editorial from Huntington News in Huntington, WV that sums up why many want to see Chuck Hagel in the White House. U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) has led what some would call an adventuresome life: helping to fight the Vietnam War, some serious success as a businessman and entrepreneur, and one of the most respected, independent political voices at the nation's capitol. He could cash in his chips right now and leave a hero. Or perhaps opt for a significant appointment in the next administration like Colin Powell chose to do, perhaps to his regret. But increasingly, Senator Hagel sounds like a Republican Presidential candidate, and when one surveys the field of likely candidates in parties, no one else has the blend of experience, the understanding of war, and the pulse of the American people like Senator Hagel does. Nobody. Hagel was the first Republican to question whether the Iraq War was heading in the right track. He courageously asked questions nobody

This evening we have a guest post by Mary Wittler.-------------------------------------------------------Chuck Hagel Yesterday, the local news was making a big todo about the Chuck Hagel announcement coming on Monday from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. And rightly so. I remember the last time one of Nebraska's own made a run for the top job. Bob Kerrey created a lot buzz and a pretty big stir when he threw his hat in the ring for a relatively short run. I don't expect that to be the case this time around. This one's gonna be interesting. I can attest to that because I've been watching Senator Hagel from the farmhouse for quite a while now. A brief history as I recall. Before Chuck Hagel came into the picture, his senate seat was held by Democratic Senator James Exon. James Exon was a much beloved and highly regarded Nebraska politician having won five consecutive state elections and never having lost. He was a popular two term governor before taking on the Senate. He retire

Last weekend, I was catching up on some old podcasts, including a then-two-week-old edition of 'Meet the Press'. Nebraska Republican Senator Chuck Hagel told Tim Russert that he would make his decision on a presidential run within the following two weeks. I couldn't find any report that he had done so in the two weeks since that appearance. So, I emailed Charlie, who runs the best and longest-running Hagel blog, and asked him what he knew. He told me that all he knew was that Hagel had been saying since mid-January that he would make a decision 'in the next couple of weeks', but then nothing really happened. I sensed, and sympathised, with Charlie's obvious frustration in working so hard to support a candidate without any idea of that candidate's own intentions. The Biden bloggers have had inevitability to spur them on; for Rice bloggers, it has been tenacity in the face of obvious and utter futility. But Charlie could experience neither of those emotions.So, it was with

The New York Times is reporting that Chuck Hagel will announce Monday that he is running for President. I don't know if there is a place for an antiwar candidate in the Republican field, but Hagel should make things interesting. This also probably puts an end to speculation that Hagel was aiming for the Unity '08 nod.Hat tip to Political Wire.

The end of the wait in is in sight! Chuck Hagel will annouce his future plans on Monday morning. Now if we only knew what that was.... Hagel to Hold News Conference Regarding His Future PlansU.S. Senator Chuck Hagel will hold a news conference Monday, March 12, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. CST. The news conference will be held in Bootstrapper Memorial Hall at the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s William H. and Dorothy Thompson Alumni Center.You can read about it in the Omaha World-Herald as well.

Esquire Magazine has a profile of Chuck Hagel for their upcoming April issue. Be sure to check out the full article."Chuck Hagel's historic moment, and what it means for a declining presidency." The article give an excellent look into the person of Chuck Hagel, giving an excellent background on his family, experience in Vietnam, and how he came to where he is now. There's also some nice photos in the piece as well.

Cyclone Conservatives has a great post titled "Is Hagel The Credible Conservative Candidate?"There seems to be a lot of media discussion lately claiming that the GOP has not yet found a top tier conservative candidate to rally around yet....So, there is definitely no ideal candidate out there...YET.And so that brings into the equation Senator Chuck Hagel of Nebraska. If conservatives can be calmed about his dovish tendencies toward Iraq, then Hagel might be the most well-known conservative in the race.Recently, the National Journal released their 2006 liberal/conservative scores for Senators and Congressmen. After taking into account votes based on economic, social, and foreign policy; a formula is created and the votes are plugged in. The Result? Of the 2008 Presidential aspirants already in the race or names that are floated, Senator Chuck Hagel of Nebraska is the most conservative U.S. Senator. He just outflanks Brownback by a little bit. Sure, Hagel bucks the President on foreign p

Josh (from Kansas City, MO) has given his answer to our question: "Why do you want Chuck Hagel to be our next President?"Chuck Hagel represents the utopian Republican right now. He's firm on Repubican morals, and accountability, but he's also willing to hold firm to his beliefs that America can do better in the area of Foreign Policy. No one is satisfied with the current situation in Iraq. What happened in the past is past. Chuck Hagel looks to the future. Instead of the typical Congressman's response of "If we knew then what we know now," Chuck has come up with a viable workable, and more importantly a bi-partisan solution. What more could you ask for? He's a great choice, because he truly represents Republican values, and is a viable option for those moderate Republicans and Independents that aren't yet willing to concede the White House to the Democrats. I hope that Chuck decides to run, if so it's going to be up to us to help him out, and I'm willing to take that ste

There are two articles out today making the case that Chuck Hagel is the right choice for the Republicans. They both note (as I have heard many times) that Republicans are not excited about the 2008 field.The first is "Long-Shot Hagel May Be Republican's Best Bet" by Margaret Carlson. Here are some excerpts. With no Secretariat in the stable, there's room for a dark horse. Galloping in is Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel....If party activists could see past his sharp criticism of Bush's foreign policy, they would like his life story. Hagel's father died when he was a teenager, and young Chuck helped look after the other children and worked as a carhop at a hamburger joint. He and his younger brother joined the infantry and nearly died in Vietnam. He worked several jobs before starting a hugely successful cell-phone company. It made him a millionaire.... Although he's often referred to as McCain without the attitude, Hagel is hardly an economic populist. He is an ardent tax cutter an

Senator Hagel talked about the 2008 race with a local news station in Nebraska and you can watch the video on their website. They discuss the blogs encouraging him to run (such as this one) and the grassroots movement in the clip.

Yesterday, MSNBC/NBC News reported that the Saudis will send forces to Iraq if the situation continues to deteriorate, citing skepticism that the plan to add 21,500 more U.S. forces will quell the violence. Saudi Arabia believes the Iraqi government is not up to the challenge and has told the United States that it is prepared to move its own forces into Iraq should the violence there degenerate into chaos, a senior U.S. official told NBC News on Tuesday. On the homefront, Senator Chuck Hagel (R-Nebraska) plans to push legislation with Senate Democrats Joe Biden (Delaware) and Carl Levin (Michigan) on a resolution opposing Bush’s recently outlined policy, dubbed the “McCain Doctrine.” Steve Soto notes that the White House and allies on the Hill are trying to frame Hagel’s position on Iraq as laying the groundwork for a 2008 presidential bid as the GOP anti-war candidate. Most of the more formidible Republican candidates have backed the escalation proposal. But, i

Tonight on FOX News Channel’s Hannity & Colmes, radio talk show host Michael Reagan, the adopted son of former President Ronald Reagan, insinuated that Nebraska GOP Senator Chuck Hagel is vehemently opposed to the war in Iraq because “he is running for re-election in 2008″ and “saw this last election” as a referendum on Iraq, ergo, his Iraq position is just “playing politics.” However, Senator Hagel, a Vietnam combat veteran earning two Purple Hearts, voted for the AUMF in October 2002, but has long criticized the Bush administration. The notion that Hagel made a significant shift on Iraq since November 7, 2006 is a complete farce. Hagel on Iraq: A Timeline Joined chorus of U.S. senators in blasting the Bush administration on the handling of Iraq. [USA Today, 9/15/04] Told 200 members of the American Legion that he believed “Iraq could be worse than Vietnam.” [Daily Kos, 6/26/06] Said that the Bush administration was disconnect

I've mentioned how votes in Massachusetts aren't keen on Kerry or Romney for President, and how Tennesseans could do without a Frist bid for the White House. These stories are obviously a good earner for Associated Press - from whose exit polls they originate - because there are plenty more out there.Two that I haven't yet mentioned: in the Sioux City Journal, an AP story reporting that Nebraska Republican Senator Chuck Hagel has the support of just 37% of Nebraskans for his presidential dream; and from AP in MSNBC, news that former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, from Georgia, excites only 30% of Georgians for his 2008 run (thanks to LKLIII for flagging up this story in the Oval Office 2008 Forum).The story in the Sioux City Journal notes that a majority of New Yorkers now favour a Hillary Clinton presidential bid, and nearly two-thirds of Illinois voters think an Obama run would be swell.Sioux City Journal: Poll not high on Hagel for president

It's been a while since I last posted about where you can find Chuck Hagel for President merchandise from various sites on the internet. Here are some of them:http://www.republicansource.com/hagel.htmhttp://www.cafepress.com/politicalpickle/1531463http://www.cafepress.com/mypresident2008/749233There is a more complete listing from an older post here.

There is a wide assortment of Chuck Hagel 2008 merchandise out there from various places on the web. Buy and display proudly to support Chuck Hagel!Chuck Hagel 2008 Merch -Hats, shirts, buttons, etc.Chuck Hagel shirts, bags, stickers, and buttonsAn amazing assortment of Chuck Hagel for President itemsVote for Chuck T-ShirtBumper StickerChuck Button, 10 pack, 100 packHagel Button, 10 pack, 100 packSix different bumper sticker styles, scroll down to find themSix different mug styles, scroll down to find themTwelve different t-shirt styles, scroll down to find themNote: None of these are sold through this site, these links all take you to external sites.Also don't forget about Chuck Hagel: Moving Forward, the biography about Senator Hagel. There is a link to it at Amazon.com on the right side of this page. Technorati tags: Chuck Hagel, Election 2008, Merchandise

There are a number of sites selling Chuck Hagel for President merchandise, and here is one more and here is another source. A previous post detailed a number of places where such gear can be purchased.

There is already Chuck Hagel 2008 merchandise out there, mainly in the form of bumper stickers and t-shirts. Buy and display proudly to support Chuck Hagel!Vote for Chuck T-ShirtBumper StickerChuck Button, 10 pack, 100 packHagel Button, 10 pack, 100 packSix different bumper sticker styles, scroll down to find themSix different mug styles, scroll down to find themTwelve different t-shirt styles, scroll down to find themUpdate:Chuck Hagel shirts, bags, stickers, and buttonsAn amazing assortment of Chuck Hagel for President itemsNote: None of these are sold through this site, these links all take you to external sites. Technorati tags: Chuck Hagel, Election 2008, Merchandise