Former Republican Senator and Secretary of Defense nominee
The hearing is expected to be contentious, as Hagel has faced mounting criticism from Republicans since his nomination was only rumored.
"I am on the record on many issues," he said in his opening statement. “But no one individual vote — no one individual quote — no one individual statement defines me, my beliefs, or my record.
"My overall worldview has never changed: that America has and must maintain the strongest military in the world; that we must lead the international community to confront threats and challenges together; and that we must use all our tools of American power to protect our citizens and our interests. I have always believed that America must engage in the world."
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