Chuck Hagel was one of the first politicians I was ever aware of when I was a kid. Of course I didn’t know much about him, having not a bit of real understanding of politics at the time, but I did come to understand him later on, as my state’s long time, and respected, senator, and a player on the national stage.

I was more right leaning during college, more a moderate-ish libertarian if we’re getting specific, and I was a very serious McCain supporter. Many thought of him as Mccain’s near sure fire Vice Presidential pick. I began paying more attention then.

Now, Hagel isn’t as moderate as people make him out to be, but he did take a number of principled stands against his own party that garnered him hatred among his own party here in Nebraska, which many attest to at least part of the reasoning behind his decision not to run again in 2008, but also a lot of respect from practical minded politicians everywhere. His lack of endorsement for McCain, following McCain’s obvious play to the GOP base to gain the nod, is just further testament to his good judgment.

He is however very common sensical, and rather transpartisan, in his approach towards foreign policy. He’s got all the chops Obama would need, and then some, for a replacement for Gates, and for all intents and purposes, he seems like a shoe in for the job.

I hope it happens. For what its worth, his potential future candidacy has my wholehearted endorsement.