Thursday, February 28, 2013

RJC Responds to Hagel Confirmation: Hagel Choice Sends Wrong Message to Our Allies and Adversaries


Washington, D.C. (February 26, 2013) — The Republican Jewish Coalition released the following statement about today’s Senate vote on the nomination of Chuck Hagel to be secretary of defense:

We are disappointed that Chuck Hagel’s nomination won confirmation from the Senate. Respecting the President’s prerogative to name his Cabinet members does not outweigh the Senate’s duty to examine nominees and withhold consent from someone who is not qualified for the office.

Chuck Hagel’s statements on Israel and the “Jewish lobby” raised serious concerns about his fitness to serve. His views on Iran are also deeply troubling. Hagel’s appearance before the Senate Armed Services Committee showed that he lacks an understanding of the issues facing our defense forces and national security leaders. And he does not have the experience in running a large and complex organization that would make him an effective secretary of defense.

RJC Executive Director Matt Brooks said, “Sadly, we continue to believe that the choice of Chuck Hagel for this post sends the wrong message to the American people, our allies, and our adversaries.”

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