OMAHA, Neb. (AP) _ Former Republican U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel is expected to endorse Democrat Bob Kerrey in his Senate race against Republican state Senator Deb Fischer. Multiple Omaha media outlets report the Kerrey campaign has scheduled a news conference today to announce the endorsement.

Fischer, who will have former presidential candidate John McCain with her at the start of a campaign swing today, will be at West Nebraska Regional Airport Friday afternoon at 4 30.

Kerrey and Fischer are locked in a tight race to replace Senator Ben Nelson.