Washington DC – January 9, 2012 – News Release – The Council for a Livable World today endorsed President Barack Obama’s nomination of former Senator Chuck Hagel to be Secretary of Defense.
In doing so, Council joins such distinguished Hagel supporters as former Secretary of State and Joint Chief of Staff Chairman Colin Powell, former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, and other top national security, defense and military officials and groups.
“Senator Hagel’s distinguished career in the Senate, and his military and other public service has demonstrated his ability to successful manage the Pentagon as it reshapes itself to address 21st century security threats,� said Lt. General (ret. USA) Robert Gard, Jr PhD, chairman of the Council’s sister organization, the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.
The Council cited Hagel’s ability to bring new and creative ideas to reshaping the defense budget to contain 21st century threats while recognizing budgetary realities. The Council also cited Hagel’s position supporting diplomatic solutions to Iran’s nuclear program, peace in the Middle East and reducing the Cold War nuclear arsenal amassed by the U.S. and Russia.
“Senator Hagel shares an internationalist viewpoint with pragmatic and realist values of the majority of Americans on the many national security issues facing the U.S.,� said John Isaacs, executive director of the Council for a Livable World.
The Council’s full statement can be seen here (http://bit.ly/10fscBT) which was sent to Senate offices this morning.
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Council for a Livable World is a non-partisan advocacy organization dedicated increasing national security, particularly through reducing of the danger of nuclear weapons. The Council advocates for a strong and sensible national security policy and helps elect congressional candidates supporting those ideals.