Senate Republicans in a 58-40 vote Thursday blocked former Sen. Chuck Hagel’s (R-Neb.) nomination as Defense secretary from proceeding to a final up-or-down vote.

Four Republicans — Sens. Susan Collins (Maine), Thad Cochran (Miss.), Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) and Mike Johanns (Neb.) joined 55 Democrats and Independents in supporting the nomination. Sixty votes were needed to cut off debate. Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) voted present.

Republicans have demanded more information about speeches the nominee gave and his compensation for them. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) at a hearing this week suggested the speeches were given to extreme or radical groups, a statement some Democrats have criticized.

Republicans said it was too early to clear Hagel’s nomination, but that they would consider allowing an up-or-down vote after the Senate returns to business on Feb. 25.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) scolded Republicans for holding up Hagel, saying it was the first filibuster of a Defense nominee in history.

Hagel seems likely to be confirmed despite Thursday vote, but it highlighted the contentiousness of his nomination.

http://thehill.com/blogs/defcon-hill/arm...ination-in-vote

They said he would probably be voted in next week so what's the difference? These people are so stupid!

I love how Hatch voted present. What a bunch of phonies. I guess Orrin and Hagel have a tee time to keep this weekend.