Hagel Backing Obama? It's "Possible."

Republican Sen. and Iraq war critic Chuck Hagel has been talked about a possible third-party presidential or vice presidential candidate, though that talk has significantly diminished with the success of Barack Obama's political campaign.

ON MSNBC's "Morning Joe" today, Hagel was asked if he would endorse presumptive GOP presidential nominee John McCain.

“John McCain is a very good friend," Hagel said. “But he and I obviously have some very significant differences on Iraq, on some other things. I may not endorse anyone."

Hagel was also asked if he would back Democratic frontrunner Barack Obama.

“It’s possible, but I don’t see that happening," Hagel said, adding: "My endorsement is irrelevant anyway for the success of any candidate."

There is some speculation that Obama, who trumpets his ability to reach across the aisle, could consider tapping Hagel as his running mate.

Meanwhile, Democrat Mario Cuomo penned an op-ed that ran in Saturday's Boston Globe calling for Obama and Hillary Clinton to form a joint ticket in order to avoid lasting damage to the party.

The response from the campaigns so far? Not encouraging.