Hagel Stays Mum On His 2008 Plans

Hagel Stays Mum On His 2008 Plans

By: OSKAR GARCIA

Associated Press Writer


BELLEVUE, Neb. -- Sen. Chuck Hagel acknowledged Wednesday that many people already seem to assume he is intent on running for president in 2008.

"I get that reaction," Hagel said after making brief remarks and answering audience questions at Bellevue University. "I just take it as a compliment, appreciate that they would have that much confidence in me to kind of assume that."

The Nebraska Republican talked to reporters before addressing the audience of roughly 200, but did not hint at when he would make any announcement, saying only it would not come while he's in Nebraska this week.

"We'll make that decision one of these days, and I'll let you know," Hagel said.

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Check out the full Yankton Press article at: http://www.yankton.net/stories/022207/news_5568022207.shtml


Here's an Omaha World-Herald article:

Hagel still won't say whether he's a presidential candidate

BELLEVUE, Neb. (AP) - Sen. Chuck Hagel acknowledged today that many people already seem to assume he is intent on running for president in 2008."

I get that reaction," Hagel said after making brief remarks and answering audience questions at Bellevue University. "I just take it as a compliment, appreciate that they would have that much confidence in me to kind of assume that."

The Nebraska Republican talked to reporters before addressing the audience of roughly 200, but did not hint at when he would make any announcement, saying only it would not come while he's in Nebraska this week."

We'll make that decision one of these days, and I'll let you know," Hagel said.

The senator said he will meet with Gov. Dave Heineman, state senators and others this week while the U.S. Senate is on a break that started with Presidents Day.

Hagel did answer questions about Iraq, Iran, global warming and the United States' current place in the world.