Obama nominations under scrutiny

Answer 1

On Monday, President Barack Obama nominated former Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel to be Secretary of Defense and top counter-terrorism adviser John Brennan to be CIA director.

Obama heralded the credentials of both candidates, however, they are expected to face a fight during the Senate confirmation hearings.

Hagel, who is a decorated Vietnam veteran, has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans who question Hagel’s commitment to Israel’s security based on his past remarks.

Brennan may also face a battle since he was previously accused of using brutal interrogation measures while serving at the CIA during the Bush administration. In 2008, Brennan was nominated to head the CIA but the allegations led him to withdraw his name.

Last month, Obama also nominated Senator John Kerry for Secretary of State.