Hagel defends proposed cuts in defense spending Associated Press Copyright 2013 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Updated 7:55 am, Thursday, April 11, 2013 WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel is defending President Barack Obama's proposed cuts to the military as the Pentagon faces deficit-driven smaller budgets. Hagel told the House Armed Services Committee Thursday that while the system to close domestic bases is imperfect, it's a comprehensive and fair approach that will result in significant savings in the long term.