Chuck Hagel - thought to be a weak moron, now proving it

Back in February of this year, I posted about the upcoming nomination of Chuck Hagel to defense secretary. Dick Cheney had this to say:

Cheney: Obama Chose Hagel So A Republican Will �Take The Heat� For Defense Cuts
Former Vice President Dick Cheney said Saturday night that President Barack Obama has jeopardized U.S. national security by nominating substandard candidates for key cabinet posts and by degrading the U.S. military.

�The performance now of Barack Obama as he staffs up the national security team for the second term is dismal,� Cheney said in comments to about 300 members of the Wyoming Republican Party.

Cheney, a Wyoming native, said it was vital to the nation�s national security that �good folks� hold the positions of secretary of state, CIA director and secretary of defense.

�Frankly, what he has appointed are second-rate people,� he said.

John Kerry, the 2004 Democratic presidential nominee, has been confirmed as secretary of state. CIA designate John Brennan and defense secretary nominee Chuck Hagel are still awaiting U.S. Senate confirmation.

Hagel is in the news today -- from the UK Guardian:

Chuck Hagel rebuked by Chinese general over US buildup in Asia
US defence secretary Chuck Hagel was challenged by a Chinese general Saturday to better explain the US military's Asia pivot, just moments after the Pentagon chief warned Beijing over cyberwarfare.

In a speech at a high-profile security conference in Singapore, Hagel said the US administration has concerns about "the growing threat of cyberintrusions, some of which appear to be tied to the Chinese government and military".

The rebuke � coming in China's backyard and in front of a Chinese delegation � was countered by questioning of America's intent in the region, following a reposition of its military strategy.

The Chinese have us over a barrel because of the foreign trade imbalance (thanks labor unions!!!) and we do not have the backbone to call them on it. Hagel is a laughingstock.