U.S. Defense Secretary Hagel Said to Step Down: NYT

The New York Times reports that Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel is resigning, possibly as soon as today. The President is expected to announce this in the Rose Garden. Hagel has faced increasing pressure due to national security concerns, particularly the advance of the Islamic State. His resignation is seen as a move to bring in a Defense Secretary with different skills. This marks the first cabinet-level resignation after the Democrats lost their Senate Majority in the midterm elections. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.

What major announcement is expected to be made by the President in the Rose Garden?

• The resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel

• A peace treaty with a foreign nation

• A new policy on climate change

• The appointment of a new Supreme Court Justice

What has increased the pressure on Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel?

• Environmental issues

• The rise of the Islamic State

• Economic downturn

• Healthcare reforms

Why is a new Defense Secretary being considered?

• To bring in different skills for national security

• To enhance environmental strategies

• To address healthcare challenges

• To improve economic policies

What significant political event occurred after which Chuck Hagel's resignation is the first cabinet-level change?

• A major international summit

• The midterm elections

• The presidential election

• A national security conference

What was the outcome for Democrats in the recent midterm elections?

• They gained a Senate Majority

• They lost their Senate Majority

• They maintained their Senate Majority

• They won the presidential election