Graham wants Obama to withdraw Hagel nomination

In the statement, however, Graham does not say that he would
filibuster Hagel’s nomination, which is likely the only way that Republicans
could stop Hagel’s confirmation at this point.

{mosads}Even if Hagel is filibustered in an unprecedented move,
there may be enough votes to break the filibuster. Two Republicans have said
they will support Hagel, and Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) said Monday he was
opposed to a filibuster, according to media reports, though he said he was still undecided
on the nomination.

It appears highly unlikely that the Obama administration
would change directions at this point with Hagel, as no Democratic opposition
has formed against him and the party enjoys a 55-45 majority in the Senate.

Graham, McCain and other Republicans already have mounted a campaign
that helped scuttle one potential national security nomination for the
president’s second term: U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said this weekend
that it was not yet clear whether Hagel’s confirmation would require 51 votes or
60, the number needed to break a filibuster.