Local expert reacts to Hagel nomination

CEDARVILLE, Ohio (WDTN) - A local expert reacted to how President Obama's nominee for U.S. Defense Secretary - former Republican senator from Nebraska, Chuck Hagel, could effect Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Dr. Jewerl Maxwell teaches courses in American politics and political thought at Cedarville University. He believes appointing Hagel will help President Obama potentially reach out to those who are overly concerned with cutting too much from defense. Maxwell says the president's decisions will no longer be criticized as extreme now that a republican is involved in the decision making process.
 
"I believe what President Obama is trying to do is twofold," Maxwell said. "You have Chuck Hagel, who's many of his views would coincide with what President Obama would like to do during his second term in office."

But in terms of local defense, some may wonder who this will effect the Wright-Patt. Maxwell does not think the effects will be significant.

"I don't foresee there being any change an how this impacts Wright-Patt. I believe Senator Hagel, if he's in this position, would simply pursue presidents policies. And so no matter who's in that position, would be pursuing that exact same policies."

If confirmed, Hagel will become the first Vietnam veteran and first enlisted soldier to serve as U.S. Defense Secretary.