Another potential Obama Cabinet nominee is running into a buzz saw of controversy. This time it's former Sen. Chuck Hagel, a Nebraska Republican who is rumored to be up for Defense Secretary.
Jewish groups have called into question Hagel's record on Israel, including remarks he made about the clout of pro-Israel lobbying groups in Washington.
Press Secretary Jay Carney defended Hagel today -- though not with quite the same vigor that the administration used when it defended Susan Rice, before the UN ambassador withdrew from consideration as Secretary of State.
Asked Thursday about the complaints about Hagel, Carney said he could "simply say that Senator Hagel has been a remarkable servant to this country, a recipient of two Purple Hearts. He fought for this country and has served this country admirably in a number of capacities. Beyond that, I think I'll let the President make any announcements about personnel when the time is right."
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