A Republican Nebraska Senator says he will back Chuck Hagel as the next Secretary of Defense.
Mike Johanns says he believes Hagel will be a strong supporter of Israel and other allies of the US as well as being firm with America's enemies.
Johanns says he decided to support Hagel after the confirmation hearing and after meeting with him. Some Republican senators say they will vote against Hagel.
Johanns joins Republican Senator Thad Cochran of Mississippi in supporting Hagel's nominations.
With a Democrat majority in the Senate, Hagel will likely be accepted to the position. No Democrats have voiced opposition to the appointment.
