Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, the sole Republican in the Obama administration, on Monday announced plans to step down from the top Pentagon post during a ceremony at the White House.
“It’s been the greatest privilege in my life to lead and, most important, to serve with the men and women of the Defense Department and support their families,” Hagel said in brief remarks in the State dining room.
“I am immensely proud of what we accomplished during this time,” he added.
Flanked by President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, Hagel thanked both for their leadership and listed several accomplishments from his tenure, including preparing the Afghanistan National Security Forces to take the security lead as the U.S. transitions to leave, several fiscal reforms and “bolstered emerging alliances and strengthened enduring partnerships.”
“As our country prepares to celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to acknowledge what you have done,” he said to Obama. “I will continue to support you, Mr. President, and the men and women who defend this country every day so unselfishly and their families and the country so unselfishly.”
Obama thanked Hagel for his nearly two years of dedicated service and called him an “exemplary defense secretary” who has provided a “steady hand” during a time of transition for the military.
“We come from different parties, but in excepting this position, you sent a very powerful message,” Obama said. “When it’s mattered most — behind closed doors — you have always given it to me straight, and for that I’ll always be grateful.”
“Thanks to Chuck, our military is on firmer footing,” he added.
Initial media reports about Hagel’s decision to step down Monday morning said he was doing so under pressure.
In his remarks Monday, Obama said Hagel came to him in October and determined that it was “an appropriate time for him to complete his service.”
“Chuck is and has been a very good friend of mine,” Obama said. “I have known and trusted him for nearly a decade — at first when I was a green-behind-the-ears senator.”
“He does not make this or any decision lightly, but I consider myself extraordinarily lucky to have had him by my side for nearly two years.”
Former Defense undersecretary Michele Flournoy is a likely replacement. She was a finalist for the top Pentagon post in 2013 when Obama instead tapped Hagel.
A senior administration official said a successor will be named in “short order” but Hagel will remain as defense secretary until the Senate confirms his replacement.
