Focus turns to immigration reform(视频)_美文

Focus turns to immigration reform(视频)

And, the Senate will begin formal consideration of a more-controversial Cabinet pick: President Obama’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, former Republican Senator Chuck Hagel.

“Chuck Hagel is the leader that our troops deserve. He is an American patriot," President Obama said.

Hagel’s nomination has been criticized by Republican lawmakers who question his commitment to Israel’s security. Senator Lindsey Graham said, “This is an ‘in-your-face’ [brazenly provocative] nomination by the president to all of us who are supportive of Israel.”

An eventual Senate vote to confirm or reject Hagel’s nomination could test new Senate rules designed to reduce political gridlock in the chamber. Last week, the Senate voted to limit the ability of individual members to filibuster - a procedural maneuver to block consideration of a bill or presidential nominee.

Senator Ben Cardin expressed hope for a more functional and harmonious chamber. "It gives us the opportunity to work together in more confidence, beyond just the rules, but also dealing with the difficult issues this country faces," he said.

Those issues include America's runaway national debt and looming across-the-board spending cuts that will automatically take effect absent a deficit reduction agreement.