The announcement came after Hagel's meetings in the past days with key lawmakers, Xinhua reported.
The former senator won over the support of Charles Schumer, the No.3 Democrat in the Senate, the report said.
Obama announced Jan 7 his decision to pick Hagel to replace the retiring Leon Panetta at the Pentagon.
Hagel, 66, is a decorated Vietnam War veteran. He is believed to be a trusted ally of Obama on issues including quick exit from Afghanistan.
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