Hagel Punts Presidential Decision

ABC News’ David Chalian Reports: After a drumbeat of weekend hype and in one of the more bizarre press conferences of this political cycle, Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-NE), took to the stage in Omaha, NE today and said, "I am here today to announce that my family and I will make an announcement on my political future later this year," in essence punting his decision as to whether or not to enter the presidential race.

"In making this announcement, I believe there will be political options open to me at a latter date," he added. 

As George Stephanopoulos noted on "Good Morning America," it is already late in the presidential game and whether or not there will be money, staff, and support available at a later time is an open question.

Hagel ticked off the issues on which he has worked in his ten year Senate career–including Social Security, healthcare,and immigration reform–and expressed his desire to continue to work on those issues for the best of his constituents and the country. "This year will be an important year for these critical issues-and I intend to offer new initiatives on each of them." he said.   "I believe it is in the interests of my Nebraska constituents and this country that I continue to work full time on these challenges."