Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel says he and President Barack Obama had "no major differences" that led to Hagel's resignation.
Hagel said Thursday he simply came to the conclusion that it was the right time for him to step aside, and he leaves believing that he accomplished a great deal.
Hagel's comments marked the first time he has responded to questions about his resignation since he submitted it Nov. 24.
When Obama announced that Hagel was leaving, he called the former Republican senator from Nebraska an "exemplary" Pentagon chief and indicated that resigning was Hagel's decision. He said Hagel approached him and "determined that ... it was an appropriate time for him to complete his service."
The White House says it will announce Hagel's replacement Friday.
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