“This is not about politics. This is not about personalities. It is about questions like whether Iran should be allowed to get a nuclear weapon,” Senator John Cornyn said.

Republicans have promised to allow a vote this week, and Hagel’s confirmation is expected in the Democratically-controlled Senate. Votes could also be held on CIA director nominee John Brennan and treasury secretary nominee Jack Lew.

The full extent of the Obama administration's backing for same-sex marriage rights could be illuminated if the Justice Department files a brief in a landmark Supreme Court case. Last week, the department urged the court to strike down a law barring federal recognition of same-sex marriages. This week, the department could weigh in on a case challenging California’s ban on same-sex marriage.

“I think that same-sex couples should have the same rights and be treated like everybody else,” President Obama said a few days ago.

Gay rights advocates want the administration to argue for same-sex marriage as a constitutional right. If the Supreme Court agreed, it could open the door to gay marriage nationwide. The court will hear oral arguments on same-sex marriage next month, with rulings expected in June.